Rule of law

A resolution designating September 2020 as "National Voting Rights Month".

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2020

This resolution designates September 2020 as National Voting Rights Month, encourages people to uphold the right to vote, commemorates the 100th anniversary of the passage and ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution, encourages Congress to pass certain voting rights legislation, recommends the development of a curriculum in public schools and universities regarding voting, encourages the U.S. Postal Service to issue a special John R. Lewis stamp during the month of September, and invites Congress to allocate funds for public service announcements regarding elections.

To establish defiance of a congressional subpoena for testimony or documents by the President as an impeachable high crimes and misdemeanor within the meaning of Article II, Section 4 of the United States Constitution.

United States · United States Congress · 21 August 2020

This concurrent resolution declares that (1) a President's, Vice-President's, or Civil Officer's deliberate disobedience and defiance of a congressional subpoena may constitute an impeachable high crime and misdemeanor; and (2) if a President refuses to comply with a congressional subpoena by invoking executive privilege, the failure to assert that privilege with factual and legal specificity shall be taken as evidence of such disobedience and defiance.

Recognizing the importance and significance of the Justice Bell in the women's suffrage movement.

United States · United States Congress · 18 August 2020

This resolution commemorates the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which provided for women's suffrage. It also recognizes the Justice Bell as a symbol for women's suffrage.

Protect the Youth Vote Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 14 August 2020

Protect the Youth Vote Act of 2020 This bill outlines specific practices that violate the Twenty-Sixth Amendment to the Constitution and establishes procedures to enforce the amendment. The Twenty-Sixth Amendment established 18 as the legal voting age and prohibits denying or abridging the right to vote based on age.

Advancing Competitiveness, Transparency, and Security in the Americas Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 13 August 2020

Advancing Competitiveness, Transparency, and Security in the Americas Act of 2020 This bill supports U.S. economic engagement and diplomatic presence in Latin American and Caribbean countries and implements requirements to counter foreign corrupt practices and malign business practices in the region. Specifically, the bill establishes measures to (1) increase U.S. economic competitiveness and promote the rule of law in Latin American and Caribbean countries, (2) promote regional security and digital security, and (3) protect human rights in the Americas and advance the role of civil society in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Qualified Immunity Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 7 August 2020

Qualified Immunity Act of 2020 This bill codifies the defense of qualified immunity for law enforcement officers in any case under provisions regarding civil actions for deprivation of rights under color of law. Specifically, a law enforcement officer subject to such an action in his or her individual capacity shall not be found liable if the officer establishes that the right, privilege, or immunity secured by the Constitution or federal law was not clearly established at the time of the deprivation, or that at this time, the state of the law was not sufficiently clear that every reasonable law enforcement officer would have understood that the conduct alleged constituted a violation of the Constitution or federal law; or a court of competent jurisdiction had issued a final decision on the merits holding, without reversal, vacatur, or preemption, that the specific conduct alleged to be unlawful was consistent with the Constitution and federal laws. A law enforcement agency or unit of local government that employed a law enforcement officer subject to such an action shall not be liable if the officer is found not liable and to have been acting within the scope of his or her employment.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States regarding the right to vote.

United States · United States Congress · 7 August 2020

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment related to the fundamental right to vote. Specifically, it grants every U.S. citizen of legal voting age the fundamental right to vote in any public election held in the jurisdiction in which the citizen resides.

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to the fundamental right to vote.

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 2020

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment related to the fundamental right to vote. Specifically, it grants every U.S. citizen of legal voting age the fundamental right to vote in any public election held in the jurisdiction in which the citizen resides. Next, it specifies that the fundamental right to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States, a state, or a political subdivision of a state, unless the denial or abridgment is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest by the least restrictive means. Finally, it repeals a specific portion of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which allows for the denial of the right to vote based on crime. (Currently, some states disallow individuals from voting, either temporarily or indefinitely, after incarceration for a felony.)

National Commission on Renaming the J. Edgar Hoover FBI Headquarters Building Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2020

National Commission on Renaming the J. Edgar Hoover FBI Headquarters Building Act of 2020 This bill establishes the National Commission on Renaming the J. Edgar Hoover FBI Headquarters Building. The commission must make recommendations for redesignating the building that reflect certain considerations, including the mission of the FBI, the values of the U.S. Constitution, and racial, ethnic, and gender diversity. The Director of the FBI must determine whether to redesignate the building in accordance with the commission's recommendations; if the Director declines to do so, the Director must submit an explanatory report to Congress.

PAUSE Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2020

Preventing Actions Undermining Security without Endorsement Act or the PAUSE Act This bill prohibits the termination or withdrawal of the United States from certain international agreements (e.g., the New START Treaty or the Constitution of the World Health Organization) without (1) a detailed justification for, and specified certifications related to, the termination or withdrawal; and (2) a joint resolution approving the action.

Caribbean Basin Security Initiative Authorization Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2020

Caribbean Basin Security Initiative Authorization Act This bill authorizes the allocation of certain funds for purposes related to the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, requires the Department of State to develop a strategy for prioritizing efforts to increase disaster response and resilience in the Caribbean, and establishes monitoring and reporting requirements. Funds for carrying out the initiative shall be used for purposes that include (1) promoting citizen safety, security, and the rule of law in the Caribbean; (2) prioritizing efforts to combat corruption; and (3) promoting the rule of law in the Caribbean and countering influence from authoritarian regimes. The State Department shall develop a strategy that incorporates specific, measurable benchmarks demonstrating a prioritization of efforts to increase disaster response and resilience through carrying out specified coordination, resilience, and preparedness programs in beneficiary countries. The State Department must also submit an implementation plan that includes a timeline and stated objectives for such actions to be taken.

Sudan Democratic Transition, Accountability, and Fiscal Transparency Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2020

Sudan Democratic Transition, Accountability, and Fiscal Transparency Act of 2020 This bill requires the Department of State to submit a strategy outlining U.S. support for a transition to civilian-led government in Sudan, and it authorizes certain measures to support and assist such a political transition. Specifically, the bill requires the State Department to submit a strategy that includes (1) an articulation of specific U.S. objectives for the political transition in Sudan and a plan to achieve such objectives; (2) an assessment of reforms necessary to promote human rights, essential freedoms, and accountability, as well as a description of efforts to address such reforms; and (3) an assessment of security sector reforms by the Sudanese government, such as demobilizing militias and fostering civilian control of the armed forces. The bill also authorizes the President to provide certain support for (1) democratic governance, rule of law, human rights, and fundamental freedoms; (2) programs to advance economic growth, private-sector productivity, and market-based solutions to development challenges; (3) conflict mitigation strategies to support long-term peace, stability and oversight of Sudanese security and intelligence services; and (4) accountability for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. The President must impose sanctions on individuals who the President determines are committing human rights abuses, exploiting natural resources, or undermining the political transition in Sudan. Upon certification that Sudan has taken steps to improve fiscal transparency, the Department of the Treasury and the State Department must engage with international financial institutions to restructure, reschedule, or cancel the sovereign debt of Sudan. During the transitional period in Sudan, Treasury may also support the use of certain funds to respond to the COVID-19 (i.e., coronavirus disease 2019) outbreak in Sudan.

Supporting the designation of August 2020 as National Women's Suffrage Month.

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2020

This resolution supports the designation of National Women's Suffrage Month. It also celebrates the 100th anniversary of the passage and ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which provided for women's suffrage.

Condemning the statements of Representative Ilhan Omar of Minnesota.

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2020

This resolution declares that the House of Representatives (1) condemns certain statements made by Representative Ilhan Omar, (2) condemns Members of Congress who advocate for Marxist policies, and (3) reaffirms its commitment to support and defend the Constitution.

National Commission on United States Counterterrorism Policy Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 2 July 2020

National Commission on United States Counterterrorism Policy Act of 2020 This bill establishes within the legislative branch the National Commission on United States Counterterrorism Policy. The commission shall (1) review U.S. counterterrorism objectives, priorities, capabilities, policies, programs, and activities; and (2) assess how to adapt and prioritize such policies, programs, and activities to ensure that they employ a mix of available instruments of national power, comply with the rule of law and respect for civil rights and liberties and human rights, focus on terrorism risks, and are balanced relative to the pursuit of other U.S. interests. The commission shall study, among other things the evolution of threats to the United States from September 11, 2001, from international and domestic terrorism and the risks they pose relative to other threats to the United States and U.S. national interests, major lessons learned from U.S. counterterrorism activities since that date, potential new or emerging challenges, and recommendations on how best to adapt U.S. counterterrorism activities to address existing and emerging terrorism risks.

A resolution designating August 2020 as "National Women's Suffrage Month".

United States · United States Congress · 2 July 2020

This resolution designates August 2020 as National Women's Suffrage Month. It honors the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which provided for women's suffrage.

Ending Qualified Immunity Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 July 2020

Ending Qualified Immunity Act This bill eliminates the defense of qualified immunity in civil actions for deprivation of rights. Qualified immunity is a judicially created doctrine that protects government employees or those acting with state authority from being held personally liable for constitutional violations. The bill provides that under the statute allowing a civil action alleging deprivation of rights under color of law, it shall not be a defense or immunity to any such action that (1) the defendant was acting in good faith or believed that his or her conduct was lawful at the time it was committed; (2) the rights, privileges, or immunities secured by the Constitution or laws were not clearly established at the time of their deprivation; or (3) the state of the law was such that the defendant could not reasonably have been expected to know whether his or her conduct was lawful.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit the use of slavery and involuntary servitude as a punishment for a crime.

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2020

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting the use of slavery or involuntary servitude as a punishment for a crime.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States protecting the right of citizens to vote.

United States · United States Congress · 25 June 2020

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that grants U.S. citizens who are 18 years of age or older a right to vote unless they are serving a sentence for a felony in a correctional facility at the time of an election. (Currently, some states disallow individuals from voting, either temporarily or indefinitely, after incarceration for a felony.)

Reforming Qualified Immunity Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2020

Reforming Qualified Immunity Act This bill modifies the defense of qualified immunity in civil actions for deprivation of rights. Qualified immunity is a judicially created doctrine that protects government employees or those acting with state authority from being held personally liable for constitutional violations. The bill provides that under the statute allowing a civil action alleging deprivation of rights under color of law, it shall not be a defense or immunity to any such action that (1) the defendant was acting in good faith or believed that his or her conduct was lawful at the time it was committed; (2) the rights, privileges, or immunities secured by the Constitution or laws were not clearly established at the time of their deprivation; or (3) the state of the law was such that the defendant could not reasonably have been expected to know whether his or her conduct was lawful. A defendant sued in his or her individual capacity shall not be liable if specified conditions apply (concerning the defendant's belief that conduct was lawful or judicial decisions addressing the validity of laws), such as when the defendant establishes that, at the time the deprivation occurred, the conduct alleged to be unlawful was specifically authorized or required by a federal or state statute or regulation. A municipality or other unit of local government shall be liable for a violation by an agent or employee of the municipality or unit of local government acting within the scope of his or her employment.

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that undue restrictions on the right of law-abiding gun owners to carry a firearm for self-defense outside of the home violate the Second Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2020

This concurrent resolution expresses the sense of Congress that undue restrictions on the right of law-abiding gun owners to carry a firearm for self-defense outside of the home violate the Second Amendment to the Constitution.

Strengthening the Posse Comitatus Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2020

Strengthening the Posse Comitatus Act of 2020 This bill modifies provisions of the Posse Comitatus Act that prohibit the willful use of any part of the Army or Air Force to execute the law unless expressly authorized by the Constitution or an act of Congress. Specifically, the bill expands the applicability of the Posse Comitatus Act to all branches of the Armed Forces. The bill also prohibits the use of evidence obtained by or with the assistance of a member of the Armed Forces in violation of the bill.

Resolving that jurisdictions seeking to dismantle or reduce funding for the jurisdiction's police force should not unduly burden residents who seek to defend themselves.

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2020

This resolution expresses that any jurisdiction that seeks to dismantle or reduce funding for a police force should review its local rules to ensure such rules do not place an undue burden on residents who seek to defend themselves, including through the legal purchase of a firearm and training services; such a review should be based on standards set forth by the Supreme Court that confirmed the Second Amendment to the Constitution to be an individual right and that no law can prohibit an individual from possessing and using a firearm in the home for self-defense; and any jurisdiction that seeks to dismantle or reduce funding for police agencies must remove rules that hinder individual gun ownership or access to firearms.

Encouraging the celebration of the month of June as LGBTQ Pride Month.

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2020

This resolution expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that (1) lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) rights are human rights and protected by the U.S. Constitution; (2) LGBTQ Pride Month should be celebrated; and (3) all Americans should be treated equally regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Recognizing the threats to press freedom in the United States in the wake of protests following the killing of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, by police in Minneapolis on May 25, 2020, reaffirming the centrality of a free and independent press to the health of democracy, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance.

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2020

This resolution expresses support for freedom of the press and opposes the targeting of journalists. Specifically, the resolution calls on law enforcement to protect freedom of the press and refrain from targeting journalists and media workers; calls on government entities to clarify that credentialed press are exempt from curfews enacted in response to protests and public demonstrations; stresses the need for accountability where law enforcement entities or protesters violate the Constitution, laws, or regulations in their treatment of journalists and media crews during protests; and reaffirms the centrality of freedom of the press to supporting democracy, exposing corruption, and promoting good governance.

Bivens Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 2020

Bivens Act of 2020 This bill provides statutory authority for individuals to sue and recover damages from federal officials for violations of their constitutional rights. Currently, individuals have a statutory right to bring such suits against state or local officials, commonly known as Section 1983 suits or Bivens actions. Although the statute does not explicitly authorize such suits against federal officials, the Supreme Court has found this right to be inferred from the Constitution.

Twentieth Amendment Section Four Study Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2020

Twentieth Amendment Section Four Study Act This bill establishes the Twentieth Amendment Section Four Panel, which must recommend to Congress model legislation to resolve any vacancy created by the death of a candidate in a contingent presidential or vice-presidential election. Such panel terminates 90 days after submitting its final report. (The Twelfth Amendment to the Constitution requires that presidential and vice-presidential candidates gain a majority of electoral votes to win an election. In the event that no candidate wins a majority of electoral votes, the Twelfth Amendment requires the House of Representatives to elect the President and the Senate to elect the Vice President, which is known as a contingent election. The Twentieth Amendment to the Constitution allows Congress to establish a process in the case of the death of a candidate in a contingent presidential or vice-presidential election.)

National Commission on Modernizing Military Installation Designations Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2020

National Commission on Modernizing Military Installation Designations Act This bill establishes in the executive branch the National Commission on Modernizing Military Installation Designations, an independent commission charged with reviewing the designations (i.e., names) of certain military installations and other property of the Department of Defense (DOD). Specifically, the commission must review the designations of the following military installations: (1) Camp Beauregard, Louisiana; (2) Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia; (3) Fort Benning, Georgia; (4) Fort Bragg, North Carolina; (5) Fort Gordon, Georgia; (6) Fort Hood, Texas; (7) Fort Lee, Virginia; (8) Fort Pickett, Virginia; (9) Fort Polk, Louisiana; (10) Fort Rucker, Alabama; (11) the U.S.S. Chancellorsville ; and (12) any other military base or property as the commission determines appropriate. In conducting its review, the commission must consider whether current designations represent the values enshrined in the U.S. Constitution and whether a designation features certain other characteristics (e.g., honoring careers or actions that were important to, and well known in, the locality or function to be memorialized). The commission must produce reports with any recommendations for action by the executive branch and Congress related to each military installation. Not later than 30 days after the submission of the recommendations in the final report, DOD must redesignate the military installations with such designations as determined by the commission. The commission shall terminate not later than 30 days after submitting the final versions of its reports and recommendations.

Recognizing the threats to press freedom in the United States in the wake of protests following the killing of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, by police in Minneapolis on May 25, 2020, reaffirming the centrality of a free and independent press to the health of democracy, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance.

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2020

This resolution expresses support for freedom of the press and opposes the targeting of journalists. Specifically, the resolution calls on law enforcement to protect freedom of the press and refrain from targeting journalists and media workers; calls on government entities to clarify that credentialed press are exempt from curfews enacted in response to protests and public demonstrations; stresses the need for accountability where law enforcement entities or protesters violate the Constitution, laws, or regulations in their treatment of journalists and media crews during protests; and reaffirms the centrality of freedom of the press to supporting democracy, exposing corruption, and promoting good governance.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the tragic death of George Floyd was unjust and the perpetrators must stand trial and be brought to justice, the First Amendment of the Constitution guarantees individuals the right to peaceably assemble and protest, groups like Antifa and the individuals who took over peaceful protests with violence, chaos, looting, and destruction should be held accountable for their actions, the attacks on law enforcement, individuals, small businesses, and communities are causing death, injury and millions of dollars in damage, the vast majority of men and women in law enforcement work tirelessly and risk their lives to protect the people of the United States without prejudice, police departments are the cornerstone for maintaining a society of order, calls to defund the police threaten the safety and security of the people of the United States, Congress will continue to appropriate funding to local law enforcement agencies that bolster police efforts, and the Nation must come together in healing, reconciliation, and prayer to reaffirm that every life is sacred, our society must strive for equality, and that we will work to ensure a tragedy like George Floyd's never happens again in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 2020

This resolution expresses the sense of the Senate that it is U.S. policy to commemorate the life of George Floyd, to urge an end to violence damaging lives and businesses, and to urge leaders to adjust the training of law enforcement to ensure equal treatment under the law.

Expressing support for democratic elections in the Co-operative Republic of Guyana.

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 2020

This resolution commends Guyana for holding peaceful, multiparty general and regional elections and supports the current recount of all ballots cast. It also calls on (1) all parties to respect the outcome, and (2) the citizens of Guyana to respect the rule of law and human rights as the recount proceeds.

Declaring unconditional war on racism and invidious discrimination and providing for the establishment of a Cabinet-level Department of Reconciliation charged with eliminating racism and invidious discrimination.

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2020

This resolution condemns racism and invidious discrimination as evil and antithetical to the U.S. Constitution and declares unconditional war on racism and invidious discrimination in America. The resolution declares that the House of Representatives shall pass legislation establishing a Cabinet-level Department of Reconciliation. The department shall be charged with ending racism and invidious discrimination, developing and coordinating the implementation of a comprehensive national strategy to eliminate racism and invidious discrimination, with a budget the equivalent of at least 10% of the Defense Department's budget. The department shall be headed by a Secretary of Reconciliation, who shall make semi-annual progress reports to Congress.

Ending Qualified Immunity Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2020

Ending Qualified Immunity Act This bill eliminates the defense of qualified immunity in civil actions for deprivation of rights. Qualified immunity is a judicially created doctrine that protects government employees or those acting with state authority from being held personally liable for constitutional violations. The bill provides that under the statute allowing a civil action alleging deprivation of rights under color of law, it shall not be a defense or immunity to any such action that (1) the defendant was acting in good faith or believed that his or her conduct was lawful at the time it was committed; (2) the rights, privileges, or immunities secured by the Constitution or laws were not clearly established at the time of their deprivation; or (3) the state of the law was such that the defendant could not reasonably have been expected to know whether his or her conduct was lawful.

Read the Bills Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 June 2020

Read the Bills Act This bill establishes requirements relating to the introduction and consideration of any bill or resolution in either chamber of Congress. Specifically, the bill requires any measure introduced in either chamber to contain a provision citing the specific powers granted to Congress in the Constitution to enact the proposed measure, including all of its provisions. Further, the text must also set forth the current law such measure is amending and the proposed modifications to the law. Additionally, a vote on final passage of a measure (except private bills) may not occur in either chamber unless (1) the full text of the measure is published on an official website of each chamber at least seven days before the vote, (2) public notice of the specific calendar week during which the vote is scheduled to take place is posted on the respective website at least six days before the Monday of such week, and (3) there is a reading of its full text verbatim by the Clerk of the House of Representatives or the Secretary of the Senate to the respective chamber.

A joint resolution requesting the Secretary of the Interior to authorize a unique and 1-time arrangement for certain displays on Mount Rushmore National Memorial relating to the centennial of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States during the period beginning August 18, 2020, and ending on September 30, 2020.

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2020

This joint resolution requests the Department of the Interior to authorize a one-time arrangement to commemorate the centennial of the passage of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution entitled LOOK UP TO HER at Mount Rushmore with a display of historical artifacts, digital content, film footage, and associated historical audio and imagery in and around the vicinity of the Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota for 14 nights of public display during August 18-September 30, 2020.

Celebrating the 129th anniversary of the birth of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar.

United States · United States Congress · 14 April 2020

This resolution celebrates the life and accomplishments of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, an Indian politician and jurist who campaigned against social discrimination and drafted the Constitution of India. The resolution also recognizes equality, justice, and liberty as essential rights.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the powers of the president remain limited by the Constitution and laws of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 14 April 2020

This resolution affirms that the President's authority is not total.

HEARING ON PROTECTING CONGRESS' POWER OF THE PURSE AND THE RULE OF LAW

United States · United States House of Representatives · 11 March 2020

STOP FGM Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2020

Strengthening the Opposition to Female Genital Mutilation Act of 2020 or the STOP FGM Act of 2020 This bill revises the federal criminal statute that prohibits certain conduct often referred to as female genital mutilation (FGM). Currently, the FGM statute prohibits performing certain procedures—circumcising, excising, or infibulating the female genitalia of a minor—for nonmedical purposes. However, it does not define FGM. In 2018 a federal district court invalidated the FGM statute in United States vs. Nagarwala . The court found, among other things, that the statute exceeds Congress's authority under the Commerce Clause of the Constitution because it (1) lacks detailed, record-based findings regarding how FGM substantially affects interstate commerce; and (2) lacks jurisdictional elements (e.g., requirements that charged offenses have an explicit connection with, or effect on, interstate commerce). In 2019, the Department of Justice (DOJ) decided not to appeal the decision. This bill creates a statutory definition of female genital mutilation and provides explicit findings regarding the effects of FGM on interstate commerce. The bill broadens the scope of prohibited FGM-related conduct on a minor to include attempting or conspiring to perform FGM; facilitating or consenting to FGM, as a parent, guardian, or caretaker; and transporting a minor for FGM. It expressly requires prohibited FGM-related conduct to have a connection to interstate or foreign commerce. The bill increases from 5 to 10 years the statutory maximum prison term for an FGM offense. It also prohibits a federal criminal defendant from asserting, as a defense, that FGM is required as a matter of religion, custom, tradition, ritual, or standard practice. DOJ, in consultation with various federal agencies, must report annually on FGM, including the estimated number of women and girls at risk of or subjected to FGM and actions taken by government agencies to combat the practice. Finally, the bill expresses the sense of Congress that the court erred in invalidating the existing statute. It expresses, among other sentiments, that Congress elects to amend the statute to clarify the commercial nature of FGM, but that Congress does not ratify the interpretation of the federal district court in Nagarwala .

Sudan Democratic Transition, Accountability, and Fiscal Transparency Act of 2020

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2020

Sudan Democratic Transition, Accountability, and Fiscal Transparency Act of 2020 This bill requires the Department of State to submit a strategy outlining U.S. support for a transition to civilian-led government in Sudan, and it authorizes certain measures to support and assist such a political transition. Specifically, the bill requires the State Department to submit a strategy that includes (1) an articulation of specific U.S. objectives for the political transition in Sudan and a plan to achieve such objectives; (2) an assessment of reforms necessary to promote human rights, essential freedoms, and accountability, as well as a description of efforts to address such reforms; and (3) an assessment of security sector reforms by the Sudanese government, such as demobilizing militias and fostering civilian control of the armed forces. The bill also authorizes the President to provide certain support for (1) democratic governance, rule of law, human rights, and fundamental freedoms; (2) programs to advance economic growth, private-sector productivity, and market-based solutions to development challenges; (3) conflict mitigation strategies to support long-term peace, stability and oversight of Sudanese security and intelligence services; and (4) accountability for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. The President must impose sanctions on individuals who the President determines are committing human rights abuses, exploiting natural resources, or undermining the political transition in Sudan. Upon certification that Sudan has taken steps to improve fiscal transparency, the Department of the Treasury and the State Department must engage with international financial institutions to restructure, reschedule, or cancel the sovereign debt of Sudan.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of consecutive terms that a Member of Congress may serve.

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2020

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting a person from serving more than two consecutive terms as a Senator or six consecutive terms as a Representative. Terms beginning before the ratification of this article do not count towards consecutive term limits.

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to the voting threshold for impeachment.

United States · United States Congress · 13 February 2020

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that allows the House of Representatives to agree to an article of impeachment only upon a vote of at least three-fifths of its Members.

The National Service GI Bill Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 February 2020

The National Service GI Bill Act This bill requires in-state tuition for certain volunteers, revises the requirements to receive certain national service grants, and revises AmeriCorps educational awards. It also requires certain grant programs to educate students about the U.S. Constitution. Specifically, states must charge in-state tuition rates for institutions of higher education to volunteers who have served in a national service position (i.e., AmeriCorps) for one year, as well as for their spouses and children. Additionally, states and subdivisions must submit a plan to the Corporation for National and Community Service to receive certain grants. Such a plan must (1) ensure that students are notified of and encouraged to commit to a term of service in the military, a national service program, or a public service job; (2) ensure that students are provided information about these options; and (3) include assurances that it will request each high school student to indicate a preference for a program and to register their intent to serve in the program. It revises AmeriCorps educational awards by (1) increasing the amount of such awards, and (2) modifying the requirements for calculating taxable income to exclude from gross income such awards. Further, AmeriCorps volunteers are eligible for appointment in the competitive service. (Currently, Peace Corps volunteers are eligible for such an appointment.) Finally, national activities supported by American History and Civics Education grants must include programs that educate students about the history and principles of the U.S. Constitution, including the Bill of Rights.

Washington, D.C. Admission Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 2020

Washington, D.C. Admission Act This bill provides for admission into the United States of the state of Washington, Douglass Commonwealth, composed of most of the territory of the District of Columbia. The commonwealth shall be admitted to the Union on an equal footing with the other states. The Mayor of the District of Columbia shall issue a proclamation for the first elections to Congress of two Senators and one Representative of the commonwealth. The bill applies current District laws to the commonwealth and continues pending judicial proceedings. The commonwealth (1) shall consist of all District territory, with specified exclusions for federal buildings and monuments, including the principal federal monuments, the White House, the Capitol Building, the U.S. Supreme Court Building, and the federal executive, legislative, and judicial office buildings located adjacent to the Mall and the Capitol Building; and (2) may not impose taxes on federal property except as Congress permits. District territory excluded from the commonwealth shall be known as the Capital and shall be the seat of the federal government. The bill maintains the federal government's authority over military lands and specified other property. The bill provides for expedited consideration of a joint resolution repealing the 23rd Amendment to the Constitution, which provides for the appointment of electors of the President and Vice President. The bill continues certain federal authorities and responsibilities, including regarding employee benefits, agencies, courts, and college tuition assistance, until the commonwealth certifies that it is prepared to take over the authorities and responsibilities. The bill establishes the Statehood Transition Commission to advise the President, Congress, and District and commonwealth leaders on the transition.

STRENGTHENING SECURITY AND THE RULE OF LAW IN MEXICO

United States · United States House of Representatives · 15 January 2020

A concurrent resolution affirming the importance of religious freedom as a fundamental human right that is essential to a free society and protected for all people of the United States under the Constitution of the United States, and recognizing the 234th anniversary of the enactment of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom.

United States · United States Congress · 15 January 2020

This concurrent resolution calls for honoring the 234th anniversary of the enactment of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom on Religious Freedom Day, January 16, 2020. The resolution affirms that religious freedom includes the right of individuals of any faith and individuals of no faith to live, work, associate, and worship in accordance with their beliefs; all people of the United States can be unified in supporting religious freedom because it is a fundamental human right; and the American people will remain forever unshackled in matters of faith.

Commemorating the life of William D. Ruckelshaus.

United States · United States Congress · 9 December 2019

This resolution expresses sorrow at the death of William Ruckelshaus (the founding administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency under President Nixon) and honors him for his principled service to our nation, his commitment to the rule of law, and his work to ensure a livable planet for future generations.

United States Technical Assistance for Mexican Labor Capacity Building Act of 2019

United States · United States Congress · 9 December 2019

United States Technical Assistance for Mexican Labor Capacity Building Act of 2019 This bill requires an increase in the amounts transferred to the Trade Enforcement Trust Fund and the use of such amounts to implement labor obligations in the free trade agreement with Mexico. Specifically, for the implementation and monitoring of labor obligations in the free trade agreement with Mexico, the bill designates certain funds be provided (1) to the Office of Trade and Labor Affairs at the Department of Labor; (2) to the Office of Child Labor, Forced Labor, and Human Trafficking at Labor; and (3) for three permanent Labor Attachés at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico or consulates of the United States in Mexico. For international development, the bill designates certain amounts to be transferred to the U.S. Agency for International Development to monitor trade agreement obligations related to anti-corruption and the promotion of rule of law.

Condemning the inflammatory and racially offensive statement of the President of the United States suggesting falsely a moral equivalence between the domestic terrorist act of lynching and the constitutionally provided congressional impeachment power.

United States · United States Congress · 22 November 2019

This resolution (1) condemns the tweet made by the President on October 22, 2019, drawing a moral equivalence between the exercise of the impeachment power conferred on the House of Representatives by the Constitution and lynching; and (2) calls upon all Americans to read, celebrate, and revere the Constitution.

Libya Stabilization Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 November 2019

Libya Stabilization Act This bill provides for sanctions and aid related to the conflict in Libya. The bill provides statutory authority for an April 19, 2016, executive order imposing property- and visa-blocking sanctions on persons contributing to the violence in Libya. The President shall impose property- and visa-blocking sanctions on any foreign person that (1) knowingly supports or engages in a significant transaction with a foreign person knowingly operating in Libya on behalf of Russia in a military capacity, (2) engages in significant actions threatening peace or stability in Libya, (3) misappropriates Libyan state assets or natural resources, or (4) is knowingly responsible for or complicit in serious human rights abuses in Libya. Such sanctions shall expire on December 31, 2024. The U.S. Agency for International Development may provide humanitarian assistance to individuals and communities in Libya, including urgently needed health assistance, food, and shelter. The Department of State shall work to strengthen Libya's democratic governance, including by providing assistance to (1) unify Libya's financial and governing institutions, and (2) ensure transparent and credible future elections in Libya. The Department of the Treasury shall vote and argue for international financial institutions to support an economic recovery in Libya that complements the establishment of democratic institutions and rule of law.