Rule of law

Relating to the application of Article II, section 3, clause 5, of the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 7 July 2014

Declares that the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) has failed to meet the specified requirement of the U.S. Constitution to take care that a law be faithfully executed, with respect to the departmental policy to exercise prosecutorial discretion with respect to individuals who came to the United States as children, as announced by DHS on June 15, 2012. Requires the House of Representatives to bring a civil action in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia for declaratory or injunctive relief to challenge the DHS policy.

Relating to the application of Article II, section 3, clause 5, of the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 7 July 2014

Declares that the Secretary of the Treasury has failed to meet the specified requirement of the U.S. Constitution to take care that a law be faithfully executed, with respect to the departmental policy provided under the Department of the Treasury Notice 2013-45, as announced by the Department on July 2, 2013, pertaining to the one-year delay in the application of the Internal Revenue Code with respect to reporting requirements by providers of health insurance coverage, certain employers required to report on health insurance coverage, and related requirements under the Code concerning shared responsibility for employers regarding health coverage. Requires the House of Representatives to bring a civil action in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia for declaratory or injunctive relief to challenge the Secretary.

Relating to the application of Article II, section 3, clause 5, of the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 7 July 2014

Declares that the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) has failed to meet the specified requirement of the U.S. Constitution to take care that a law be faithfully executed, with respect to the departmental policy providing for the authorization, approval, renewal, modification, or extension of any experimental, pilot, or demonstration project under the Social Security Act (SSA) that waives compliance with a mandatory work requirement by eligible states and state plans for participation in block grants under SSA title IV part A (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) (TANF). Requires the House of Representatives to bring a civil action in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia for declaratory or injunctive relief to challenge the Secretary.

Condemning the President of the United States and the executive branch of Government for continuous actions that violate the laws and Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 2014

Condemns the President and the executive branch for actions that are beyond the laws of the United States. Calls on the President and the executive branch to: (1) adhere to the Constitution and halt all unlawful and illegal actions that circumvent Congress and violate the Constitution, and (2) respect the constitutionally defined separation of powers.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate with respect to enhanced relations with the Republic of Moldova and support for the Republic of Moldova's territorial integrity.

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2014

Reaffirms that it is U.S. policy to support the Republic of Moldova's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Supports the Strategic Dialogue as a means to strengthen relations between the Republic of Moldova and the United States and enhance the democratic, economic, rule of law, and security reforms being implemented by the Republic of Moldova. Encourages: (1) the President and the Department of State to enhance U.S. cooperation with the government of Moldova and civil society organizations, and (2) the President to expedite implementation of the Act relating to "United States International Programming to Ukraine and Neighboring Regions." Affirms the Republic of Moldova's sovereign right to determine its own partnerships free of external coercion and affirms Moldova's right to associate with the European Union (EU) or any regional organization. Urges the EU to continue to work for greater political, economic, and social integration with the Republic of Moldova. Calls upon the Government of Russia to: (1) withdraw its military forces from within the internationally recognized territory of the Republic of Moldova, (2) refrain from economic coercion, and (3) cease actions that support separatist movements in Moldova. Supports confidence-building measures between the government of Moldova and the authorities in the Transnistria region in order to secure a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Affirms that lasting stability and security in Europe is a key U.S. priority that can only be achieved if the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all European countries are respected.

Reaffirming the commitment of the House of Representatives to the First Amendment to the Constitution and the vital freedom of speech protections it provides for Americans.

United States · United States Congress · 11 June 2014

Reaffirms the commitment of the House of Representatives to the First Amendment to the Constitution, as written, and the protections it affords to the American people that are vital to the nation's democracy.

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to parental rights.

United States · United States Congress · 4 June 2014

Constitutional Amendment - States that the liberty of parents to direct the upbringing, education, and care of their children is a fundamental right. Declares further that the parental right to direct education includes the right to choose public, private, religious, or home schools, and the right to make reasonable choices within public schools for one's child. States that neither the United States nor any state shall infringe upon this right without demonstrating that its governmental interest, as applied to the person, is of the highest order and not otherwise served. Prohibits this article from being construed to apply to a parental action or decision that would end life. Declares that no treaty may be adopted nor shall any source of international law be employed to supersede, modify, interpret, or apply to the rights guaranteed by this amendment.

Urging the Government of the People's Republic of China to respect the freedom of assembly, expression, and religion and all fundamental human rights and the rule of law for all its citizens and to stop censoring discussion of the 1989 Tiananmen Square demonstrations and their violent suppression.

United States · United States Congress · 27 May 2014

Urges the government of China to stop censoring information about the June 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre. Expresses sympathy to the families of those killed, tortured, and imprisoned as a result of their participation in the Tiananmen Square democracy protests. Supports all peaceful advocates for human rights and the rule of law in China for their efforts to advance democratic reforms and human rights during the past. Condemns the government of China's ongoing human rights abuses. Calls on the Broadcasting Board of Governors to take appropriate steps to circumvent Chinese Internet censorship and to provide information to the people of China about the Tiananmen Square Massacre. Calls on the United States to: (1) make human rights, including religious freedom, a priority in bilateral discussions with China; and (2) instruct the U.S. representative at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to introduce a resolution calling for an examination of China's human rights practices. Calls on China to: (1) end the harassment, detention, and torture of Chinese citizens expressing their freedom of religion, expression, and association, including on the Internet; (2) release all remaining prisoners who continue to be detained because of their participation in the 1989 pro-democracy demonstrations; (3) allow protest participants who are living in exile to return to China without risk of retribution; and (4) end Internet, media, and academic censorship of discussions of the Tiananmen protests and related events. Calls on the Administration and Congress to continue to mark the events of Tiananmen Square. Finds that U.S. relations with China are more likely to further improve once China respects the individual human rights of all its people.

Urging the Government of the People's Republic of China to respect the freedom of assembly, expression, and religion and all fundamental human rights and the rule of law for all its citizens and to stop censoring discussion of the 1989 Tiananmen Square demonstrations and their violent suppression.

United States · United States Congress · 23 May 2014

Urges the government of China to stop censoring information about the June 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre. Expresses sympathy to the families of those killed, tortured, and imprisoned as a result of their participation in the Tiananmen Square democracy protests. Supports all peaceful advocates for human rights and the rule of law in China for their efforts to advance democratic reforms and human rights during the past. Condemns the government of China's ongoing human rights abuses. Calls on the Broadcasting Board of Governors to take appropriate steps to circumvent Chinese Internet censorship and to provide information to the people of China about the Tiananmen Square Massacre. Calls on the United States to: (1) make human rights, including religious freedom, a priority in bilateral discussions with China; and (2) instruct the U.S. representative at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to introduce a resolution calling for an examination of China's human rights practices. Calls on China to: (1) end the harassment, detention, and torture of Chinese citizens expressing their freedom of religion, expression, and association, including on the Internet; (2) release all remaining prisoners who continue to be detained because of their participation in the 1989 pro-democracy demonstrations; (4) allow protest participants who are living in exile to return to China without risk of retribution; and (5) end Internet, media, and academic censorship of discussions of the Tiananmen protests and related events. Calls on the Administration and Congress to continue to mark the events of Tiananmen Square. Finds that U.S. relations with China are more likely to further improve once China respects the individual human rights of all its people.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to give States the right to repeal Federal laws and regulations when ratified by the legislatures of two-thirds of the several States.

United States · United States Congress · 21 May 2014

Constitutional Amendment - Authorizes the repeal of any federal law or regulation when the legislatures of two-thirds of the states approve resolutions for this purpose that particularly describe the provisions to be repealed.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2014

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2014 and 2015 - Authorizes FY2014-FY2015 appropriations for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Office of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI); (2) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (3) Department of Defense (DOD); (4) Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA); (5) National Security Agency (NSA); (6) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (7) Coast Guard; (8) Departments of State, the Treasury, Energy (DOE), and Justice (DOJ); (9) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); (10) Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); (11) National Reconnaissance Office; (12) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; and (13) Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2014, and as of September 30, 2015, respectively, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations for FY2014 and FY2015, which shall be made available to the congressional appropriations committees and the President. Allows the DNI to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY2014 or FY2015 when necessary for the performance of important intelligence functions. Requires notification to the intelligence committees on the use of such authority. Requires the DNI to establish guidelines to govern the treatment under such authorized personnel levels of employment or assignment in: (1) a student or trainee program; (2) a reserve corps or as a reemployed annuitant; or (3) details, joint duty, or long term, full-time training. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account for FY2014 and FY2015, as well as for personnel positions for elements within such Account. Authorizes appropriations for FY2014 and FY2015 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Permits appropriations authorized by this Act for salary, pay, retirement, and other benefits for federal employees to be increased by such additional or supplemental amounts as necessary for increases in such compensation or benefits authorized by law. Prohibits the authorization of appropriations by this Act from being deemed to constitute authority to conduct any intelligence activity not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or laws of the United States.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015

United States · United States Congress · 15 May 2014

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 - Authorizes FY2015 appropriations for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Office of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI); (2) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (3) Department of Defense (DOD); (4) Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA); (5) National Security Agency (NSA); (6) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (7) Coast Guard; (8) Departments of State, the Treasury, Energy (DOE), and Justice (DOJ); (9) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); (10) Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); (11) National Reconnaissance Office; (12) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; and (13) Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2015, for such activities are those in the classified Schedule of Authorizations, which shall be made available to the congressional appropriations committees and the President. Allows the DNI, with the approval of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY2015 when necessary for the performance of important intelligence functions. Requires notification to the intelligence committees on the use of such authority. Requires the DNI to establish guidelines to govern the treatment under such authorized personnel levels of employment or assignment in: (1) a student or trainee program; (2) a reserve corps or as a reemployed annuitant; or (3) details, joint duty, or long term, full-time training. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account for FY2015, as well as for personnel positions for elements within such Account. Authorizes appropriations for FY2015 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Permits appropriations authorized by this Act for salary, pay, retirement, and other benefits for federal employees to be increased by such additional or supplemental amounts as necessary for increases in such compensation or benefits authorized by law. Prohibits the authorization of appropriations by this Act from being deemed to constitute authority to conduct any intelligence activity not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or laws of the United States.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to enhanced relations with the Republic of Moldova and support for Moldova's territorial integrity.

United States · United States Congress · 1 May 2014

Reaffirms that it is U.S. policy to support the Republic of Moldova's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Supports the Strategic Dialogue as a means to strengthen relations between the Republic of Moldova and the United States and enhance the democratic, economic, rule of law, and security reforms being implemented by the Republic of Moldova. Encourages the President and the Department of State to enhance U.S. cooperation with the government of Moldova and civil society organizations. Affirms the Republic of Moldova's sovereign right to determine its own partnerships free of external coercion and affirms Moldova's right to associate with the European Union (EU) or any regional organization. Calls upon the Government of Russia to: (1) withdraw its military forces from within the internationally recognized territory of the Republic of Moldova, (2) refrain from economic threats, and (3) cease actions that support separatist movements in Moldova. Supports confidence-building measures between the government of Moldova and the authorities in the Transnistria region in order to secure a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Affirms that lasting stability and security in Europe is a key U.S. priority that can only be achieved if the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all European countries is respected.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States concerning the election of the Members of the House of Representatives.

United States · United States Congress · 10 April 2014

Constitutional Amendment - Requires the House of Representatives to be composed of Members chosen every fourth year. Requires that Members be assembled immediately after the first election and divided as equally as may be into two classes. States that, so one-half may be chosen every second year, the seats of the House of: (1) the first class shall be vacated at the expiration of the second year; and (2) the second class at the expiration of the fourth year. Applies this article to the first election of the House occurring after ratification, but no earlier than 2018.

Burma Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 2 April 2014

Burma Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2014 - Prohibits FY2014 or FY2015 funds from being made available for security assistance to the government of Burma unless the Secretary of State certifies to Congress that: (1) Burma has taken steps toward establishing civilian oversight of the armed forces, addressing human rights abuses by the military, and terminating military relations with North Korea; (2) Burma has taken steps to establish a fair and inclusive process to amend the Constitution of Burma, including the full participation of the political opposition and ethnic minority groups; (3) Burma has amended its constitution and laws to ensure civilian control of the military; (4) Burma is promoting peace agreements or political reconciliation and is addressing the resettlement and humanitarian situation of displaced persons; and (5) the Burmese military is improving its human rights record, taking steps to withdraw forces from conflict zones, and implementing a code of conduct. States that nothing in this Act should be construed to prevent participation by Burmese authorities in training on civil-military relations and human rights, as carried out by the Defense Institute of International Legal Studies, or to prevent U.S. disaster assistance in Burma. Directs the Secretary of State to report annually to Congress on the status of military-to-military engagement between the U.S. Armed Forces and the Burmese military.

Removing the deadline for the ratification of the equal rights amendment.

United States · United States Congress · 27 March 2014

Eliminates the time limit for ratification of the equal rights amendment (prohibits discrimination on account of sex) proposed to the states in House Joint Resolution 208 of the 92nd Congress, as agreed to in the Senate on March 22, 1972. Declares that such amendment shall be part of the Constitution whenever ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several states.

Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2014

Venezuela Defense of Human Rights and Civil Society Act of 2014 - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the United States aspires to a mutually beneficial relationship with Venezuela based on respect for human rights and the rule of law, and a productive relationship on issues of public security; (2) the United States supports the efforts of the people of Venezuela to realize their economic potential and advance representative democracy; (3) the government of Venezuela's mismanagement of its economy has produced conditions of economic hardship; (4) the government's failure to guarantee public security has led Venezuela to become one of the most violent countries in the world; (5) the government continues to remove checks and balances on the executive, politicize the judiciary, undermine the independence of the legislature, persecute its political opponents, curtail freedom of the press, and limit the free expression of its citizens; (6) the people of Venezuela have turned out in demonstrations throughout the country to protest the government's inability to ensure the political and economic well-being of its citizens; and (7) the use of violence by the National Guard and security personnel is intolerable and the use of unprovoked violence by protesters is also a matter of serious concern. States that it is U.S. policy to: (1) support the development of democratic political processes and independent civil society in Venezuela, (2) ensure the peaceful resolution of the current situation in Venezuela, and (3) hold accountable government and security officials in Venezuela responsible for the use of force in relation to the antigovernment protests that began on February 4, 2014. Directs the President to impose asset blocking and U.S. exclusion sanctions against any person, including a current or former government of Venezuela official or a person acting on behalf of such government, who has: (1) perpetrated or is responsible for otherwise directing significant acts of violence or serious human rights abuses against persons associated with the antigovernment protests in Venezuela that began on February 4, 2014; (2) directed or ordered the arrest or prosecution of a person primarily because of the person's legitimate exercise of freedom of expression or assembly; or (3) materially assisted or provided significant financial, material, or technological support for the commission of such acts. Sets forth related penalty requirements. States that U.S. exclusion sanctions shall not apply if necessary to permit the United States to comply with the Agreement regarding the Headquarters of the United Nations or other applicable international obligations. Authorizes the President to waive sanctions if in the U.S. national security interests, and with congressional notification. Directs: (1) the Secretary of State to take specified actions to support civil society in Venezuela, and (2) the President to submit a strategy to Congress to carry out such activities.

A bill to ensure that oil transported through the Keystone XL pipeline into the United States is used to reduce United States dependence on Middle Eastern oil.

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2014

Directs the Secretary of Energy (DOE) to ensure that any crude oil and bitumen transported into the United States by the Keystone XL pipeline, and all refined petroleum fuel products originating from that crude oil or bitumen, will be entered into domestic commerce in the United States for use as fuel or the manufacture of another product. Authorizes the President to waive such requirement in the national interest under specified conditions, including where: (1) an exchange of crude oil or refined product provides for no net loss of crude oil or refined product consumed domestically; or (2) a waiver is necessary under the Constitution, a law, or an international agreement.

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to give States the right to repeal Federal laws and regulations when ratified by the legislatures of two-thirds of the several States.

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 2014

Constitutional Amendment - Authorizes the repeal of any federal law or regulation when the legislatures of two-thirds of the states approve resolutions for this purpose that particularly describe the provisions to be repealed.

Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4138) to protect the separation of powers in the Constitution of the United States by ensuring that the President takes care that the laws be faithfully executed, and for other purposes, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3973) to amend section 530D of title 28, United States Code.

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 2014

Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4138) to protect the separation of powers in the Constitution of the United States by ensuring that the President takes care that the laws be faithfully executed, and for other purposes, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3973) to amend section 530D of title 28, United States Code.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the need to bring the South Sudan conflict to a sustainable and lasting end and to promote reconciliation of longstanding and recent grievances to allow for a peaceful society with good governance.

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 2014

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that it should be U.S. policy to encourage and facilitate: (1) implementation of the January 23, 2014, cessation of hostilities agreement between the government of South Sudan and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/Army in Opposition, (2) efforts to disarm and reintegrate armed groups in South Sudan, (3) elevation of the U.S. government's presence at the Addis Ababa-based peace negotiations, (4) observance of the rule of law leading to either the lawful prosecution or unconditional release of all arrested political leaders, (5) negotiation of a political framework for governance until the next general elections, (6) creation of a framework for security sector reform, (7) support for the African Union Commission of Inquiry into atrocities and human rights abuses committed during the current conflict in South Sudan, (8) support for a South Sudan version of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and (9) U.S. financial support to meet humanitarian needs and provide for capacity building.

A resolution calling on the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to cease the extra-judicial release of Afghan detainees, carry out its commitments pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding governing the transfer of Afghan detainees from the United States custody to Afghan control and to uphold the Afghan Rule of Law with respect to the referral and disposition of detainees.

United States · United States Congress · 12 February 2014

Insists that President of Afghanistan Hamid Karzai honor the March 2013 Memorandum of Understanding governing the transfer of Afghan detainees from U.S. custody to Afghan control. Insists that, if the Afghan Review Board (ARB) will not follow the conditions of the Memorandum, the ARB shall be dismantled and the National Directorate for Security and Afghan prosecutors shall determine how to handle the remaining detainees. Urges Afghanistan to cease the extra-judicial release of detainees. Calls on the Secretary of State to consider Afghanistan's adherence to existing detainee memoranda of understanding in implementing certification requirements for certain assistance for Afghanistan.

Restoring the 10th Amendment Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2014

Restoring the 10th Amendment Act - Authorizes a designated state official to submit to the head of a federal agency proposing a rule, during the period when the proposed rule is open for public comment, a legal brief challenging the constitutionality of the rule under the Tenth Amendment to the Constitution. Directs the agency head: (1) to notify the designated official of each state within 15 days after such a brief was submitted; (2) to post prominently on the front page of the agency's website a link to the brief; and (3) within 15 days after posting such link, to certify in writing that such rulemaking does not violate the Tenth Amendment and post the certification prominently on the agency's website next to the briefs pertaining to the rule, unless the agency determines not to finalize such proposed rule. Authorizes a designated state official, at any time after an agency head posts such a certification, to commence a civil action against the agency on the grounds that the rule violates the Tenth Amendment. Permits such state official, in addition to any other venue or jurisdiction provided by law, to bring such action in the U.S. district court for the district in which the official's place of business is located. Directs the appropriate U.S. court of appeals, upon the filing of a notice by a designated state official, to grant expedited review of a decision by the district court in such an action.

Getting Government to Work Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 2014

Getting Government to Work Act of 2014 - Suspends the public debt limit for the period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act and ending on February 2, 2015. Revises the special rule relating to obligations issued during the suspension period to provide for an increase in the debt limit, effective February 3, 2015, to the extent that: (1) the face amount of obligations issued and the face amount of obligations whose principal and interest are guaranteed by the federal government (except guaranteed obligations held by the Secretary of the Treasury) that are outstanding on February 3, 2015, exceeds (2) the face amount of such obligations outstanding on the date of enactment of this Act. Prohibits an obligation from being taken into account unless its issuance was necessary to fund a commitment incurred by the federal government that required payment before February 3, 2015. Requires the appropriate payroll administrator of each house of Congress to deposit in an escrow account all mandatory payments for compensation of Members of Congress serving in that house if by April 15 of any calendar year, beginning with 2015, that house has not agreed to a concurrent budget resolution for the fiscal year beginning on October 1 of that year. Requires release of such payments to those Members after April 16 of that calendar year only upon the earlier of: (1) the day on which that house agrees to a concurrent budget resolution for the fiscal year beginning on October 1 of that year, or (2) the last day of the Congress during which that calendar year occurs. Sets forth similar suspension of pay requirements if by July 31 of a calendar year, beginning with 2014, a house of Congress has not passed each of the regular appropriation bills for the fiscal year beginning on October 1 of that year. Requires release of salary payments to the appropriate Members after August 1 of the calendar year only upon the earlier of: (1) the day on which that house has passed each of the regular appropriation bills for the fiscal year beginning on October 1 of that year, or (2) the last day of the Congress during which that calendar year occurs. Requires the payroll administrator of a house of Congress, in order to ensure that this Act is carried out in a manner consistent with the Constitution, to release for payments to Members of that house any amounts remaining in any escrow account under this Act on the last day of the Congress during which the amounts were deposited in such account.

To increase the statutory limit on the public debt and to require House and Senate votes on constitutional amendments to balance the Federal budget and to restrict new entitlement spending.

United States · United States Congress · 10 February 2014

Increases the public debt limit to $19.250 trillion. Requires the House of Representatives and the Senate each to vote upon a proposed amendment to the Constitution entitled "Joint resolution proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States" or entitled "Joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to restrict the power of Congress to enact legislation increasing any amount spent under entitlement programs or creating new entitlement programs." States that if such vote fails to achieve a two-thirds majority in either house of Congress then there shall be another vote in that house on either such amendment within 90 days.

A resolution expressing support for the internal rebuilding, resettlement, and reconciliation within Sri Lanka that are necessary to ensure a lasting peace.

United States · United States Congress · 6 February 2014

Commends the U.S. representatives on their leadership on United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution (UNHRC) 22/1 which promotes reconciliation and accountability in Sri Lanka. Calls on the United States and the international community to establish an independent international accountability mechanism to evaluate reports of war crimes and other human rights violations committed by both sides during and after the war in Sri Lanka. Urges the Government of Sri Lanka to: (1) allow access for media, international aid agencies, and human rights groups into all regions of the country and to detention sites; and (2) end its media restrictions. Calls upon the President to develop a comprehensive policy towards Sri Lanka that reflects U.S. interests, including respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law, economic interests, and security interests.

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

United States · United States Congress · 4 February 2014

Constitutional Amendment - Limits Members of the Senate to two terms and Members of the House of Representatives to six terms.

A resolution observing the 100th birthday of civil rights leader Daisy Bates and honoring her legacy as an American heroine.

United States · United States Congress · 29 January 2014

Observes the 100th birthday of civil rights leader Daisy Bates and commemorates her legacy by encouraging people of the United States to promote social justice, equality, and the principles of the Constitution.

Faithful Execution of the Law Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 29 January 2014

Faithful Execution of the Law Act of 2014 - Expands the circumstances under which the Attorney General is required to report to Congress regarding the enforcement of laws to include any instance in which the Attorney General, an officer of the Department of Justice (DOJ), or any other federal officer establishes or implements a policy to refrain from: (1) enforcing, applying, or administering any federal statute, rule, regulation, program, policy, or other law within the responsibility of the Attorney General or such officer; or (2) adhering to, enforcing, applying, or complying with, a final decision of any court of jurisdiction respecting the application of the Constitution, any statute, rule, regulation, program, policy, or other law within the responsibility of the Attorney General or such officer. (Currently, reports are not required with respect to the policies of other federal officers and reports concerning nonenforcement of a law are required only when the Attorney General or a DOJ officer refrains on grounds that the provision is unconstitutional.) Requires such reports to state the grounds for policies of nonenforcement.

Recognizing the 155th anniversary of the House of Representatives' rejection of the Lecompton Constitution of the Territory of Kansas.

United States · United States Congress · 29 January 2014

Recognizes the rejection of the Lecompton Constitution of the Territory of Kansas by the House of Representatives in 1858 as a critical action in admitting Kansas as a free state into the Union of the United States. Acknowledges the drafting and ensuing debate of that Constitution as a significant catalyst that would lead to the Civil War and the ultimate abolition of slavery. Congratulates the city of Lecompton, Kansas, for maintaining its historical heritage.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to contributions and expenditures with respect to Federal elections.

United States · United States Congress · 16 January 2014

Constitutional Amendment - Denies as protected speech any financial expenditures, or in kind equivalents, with respect to a candidate for federal office, without regard to whether or not a communication expressly advocates the election or defeat of a specified candidate in the election. Gives Congress the power to enact a mandatory public financing system to provide funds to qualified candidates in federal elections, which shall be the sole source of funds raised or spent with respect to federal elections.

Burma Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 15 January 2014

Burma Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2014 - Prohibits FY2014 Department of Defense (DOD) funds from being made available to the government of Burma unless the Secretary of State certifies to Congress that: (1) Burma has taken steps toward establishing civilian oversight of the armed forces, addressing human rights abuses by the military, and terminating military relations with North Korea; (2) Burma has taken steps to establish a fair and inclusive process to amend the Constitution of Burma, including the full participation of the political opposition and ethnic minority groups; (3) Burma has amended its constitution and laws to ensure civilian control of the military; (4) Burma is promoting peace agreements or political reconciliation and is addressing the resettlement and humanitarian situation of displaced persons; and (5) the Burmese military is improving its human rights record, taking steps to withdraw forces from conflict zones, and implementing a code of conduct. Directs the Secretary of Defense to report annually to Congress on the status of military-to-military engagement between the U.S. Armed Forces and the Burmese military.

Congressional Pay for Performance Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 15 January 2014

Congressional Pay for Performance Act of 2014 - Requires the appropriate payroll administrator of each house of Congress to deposit in an escrow account all mandatory payments for compensation of Members of Congress serving in that house if by April 15 of any calendar year, beginning with 2015, that house has not agreed to a concurrent budget resolution for the fiscal year that begins on October 1 of the calendar year. Requires release to those Members of such payments after April 16 of the calendar year, only upon the earlier of: (1) the day on which that house agrees to a concurrent budget resolution for the fiscal year which begins on October 1 of that calendar year, or (2) the last day of Congress during which that calendar year occurs. Sets forth similar requirements if by July 31 of a calendar year, beginning with 2014, a house of Congress has not passed each of the regular appropriation bills for the fiscal year which begins on October 1 of that calendar year. Requires release to the appropriate Members of salary payments after August 1 of the calendar year, only upon the earlier of: (1) the day on which that house has passed each of the regular appropriation bills for the fiscal year which begins on October 1 of that calendar year, or (2) the last day of Congress during which that calendar year occurs. Requires the payroll administrator of a house of Congress, in order to ensure that this Act is carried out in a manner consistent with the Constitution, to release for payments to Members of that house any amounts remaining in any escrow account under this Act on the last day of Congress during which the amounts were deposited in such account.

Enforce the Take Care Clause Act of 2014

United States · United States Congress · 13 January 2014

Enforce the Take Care Clause Act of 2014 - Authorizes the House of Representatives or the Senate to bring an action seeking declaratory and injunctive relief to compel the President to execute a law faithfully upon the adoption of a resolution declaring that, on the basis of any of certain actions, the President has failed to meet the requirement of the Constitution to take care that such law be faithfully executed. Requires approval by at least 60% of the members in either chamber for adoption of the resolution. Describes the presidential actions involved as: the promulgation of a regulation or agency administrative guidance; the issuance of an executive order, including an order to not defend a challenge to the constitutionality of a law and an order to not enforce a law; and the issuance of a signing statement with respect to enactment of a law. Prescribes special rules with respect to any such action brought by the House or the Senate.

Burma Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2013

United States · United States Congress · 20 December 2013

Burma Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2013 - Prohibits FY2014 Department of Defense (DOD) funds from being made available to the government of Burma unless the Secretary of State certifies to Congress that: (1) Burma has taken steps toward establishing civilian oversight of the armed forces, addressing human rights abuses by the military, and terminating military relations with North Korea; (2) Burma has taken steps to establish a fair and inclusive process to amend the Constitution of Burma, including the full participation of the political opposition and ethnic minority groups; (3) Burma has amended its constitution and laws to ensure civilian control of the military; (4) Burma is promoting peace agreements or political reconciliation and is addressing the resettlement and humanitarian situation of displaced persons; and (5) the Burmese military is improving its human rights record, taking steps to withdraw forces from conflict zones, and implementing a code of conduct. Directs the Secretary of Defense to report annually to Congress on the status of military-to-military engagement between the U.S. Armed Forces and the Burmese military.

To provide for the public disclosure of information regarding surveillance activities under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978.

United States · United States Congress · 12 December 2013

Requires the Attorney General to publicly disclose, in a manner consistent with national security, any decision of a court established by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA) that surveillance activities conducted by the U.S. government have violated a particular U.S. law or constitutional provision. Requires the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to provide information on surveillance activities to Congress, including information regarding: (1) whether the National Security Agency (NSA) or any other element of the intelligence community has ever collected, or made plans to collect, the cell-site location information of a large number of U.S. persons with no known connection to suspicious activity; (2) the type and amount of evidence the DNI believes is required to permit the collection of cell-site information for intelligence purposes; (3) whether NSA or any other element of the intelligence community has ever conducted a warrantless search of a collection of communications in an effort to find the communications of a particular U.S. person (other than a corporation) and, if so, the number of such searches or an estimate of such number; (4) when the U.S. government first began relying on authorities under FISA to justify the collection of records with no known connection to suspicious activity; (5) whether representations made to the U.S. Supreme Court by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in the case of Clapper v. Amnesty International USA accurately described the use of authorities under FISA by the government, which of such representations, if any, were inaccurate, and how such representations have been corrected; and (6) FISA court opinions that identified violations of the law, the Constitution, or FISA court orders relating to the collection of information under FISA. Directs the Comptroller General (GAO), in consultation with the U.S. International Trade Commission, to conduct an assessment of the economic impact, including the impact on the ability of U.S. communication service providers to compete in foreign markets, of bulk collection and surveillance programs conducted under FISA, and to report to Congress on such assessment.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate on the continuing relationship between the United States and Georgia.

United States · United States Congress · 11 December 2013

Supports the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Georgia and expresses concerns over the continued occupation of the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia by the Russian Federation. Encourages the President to enhance U.S.-Georgia defense cooperation. Supports Georgia's North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership aspirations. Commends Georgia's determination to extend its Afghanistan mission beyond 2014. Congratulates the government and people of Georgia on the Presidential election of October 27, 2013, and encourages the government to defend the rule of law, improve judicial independence, and protect the rights of political opposition. Supports a U.S. and international election monitoring mission for this final phase of Georgia's election cycle.

Recognizing the 65th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the celebration of "Human Rights Day".

United States · United States Congress · 10 December 2013

Recognizes the 65th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the celebration of Human Rights Day. Supports the ideals of human rights and reaffirms the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Encourages all nations to continue working towards freedom, peace, and security which can be achieved only through democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law.

CORRUPTION IN CHINA TODAY: CONSEQUENCES FOR GOVERNANCE, HUMAN RIGHTS, AND COMMERCIAL RULE OF LAW

United States · United States Congress · 21 November 2013

Domestic Violence Criminal Disarmament Act of 2013

United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2013

Domestic Violence Criminal Disarmament Act of 2013 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to authorize the Attorney General to reserve not more than 5% of Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program funds for one or more states that have demonstrated that such a state has adopted policies, procedures, protocols, laws or regulations pertaining to the possession or transfer of firearms or ammunition that: impose restrictions and penalties substantially similar to or more comprehensive than those under federal criminal code provisions prohibiting the sale or other disposition of a firearm or ammunition to a person who has been convicted of domestic violence or who is subject to a protective order with respect to an intimate partner; require state and local courts to: (1) consider whether such person possesses firearms that have been or are likely to be used to threaten, harass, menace, or harm the victim or the victim's child or may otherwise pose a danger to the victim; and (2) order the seizure or surrender of firearms and ammunition from such person; are designed to ensure that state or local law enforcement execute the seizure or surrender of authorized firearms and ammunition when such person is reported to possess firearms that are obtained or possessed illegally; provide for the seizure or surrender of authorized firearms and ammunition and the return of such firearms and ammunition in a manner that protects the safety of victims of such persons; and give state and local law enforcement the authority, to the extent allowable under federal laws and the U.S. Constitution, to seize firearms or ammunition when responding to domestic violence situations where there is probable cause to believe such firearms and ammunition are contraband, illegally in the possession of the offender, have been or are likely to be used to threaten, harass, menace, or harm the victim, or may otherwise pose a danger to the victim.

Expressing disapproval of the failure to satisfy the constitutional duty to "take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed" and the usurpation of the legislative authority of Congress by the President of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2013

Disapproves the President's: (1) failure to "take care that the laws be faithfully executed," as required by the Constitution, and (2) usurpation of the legislative power of Congress through the rewriting of key provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Reaffirms that the preservation of the Constitution's separation of powers is essential for the protection of individual liberty and the maintenance of the rule of law.

Praising India's rich religious diversity and commitment to tolerance and equality, and reaffirming the need to protect the rights and freedoms of religious minorities.

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2013

Recognizes the suffering of Indian citizens who have been victims of religious violence. Calls for religious freedom and related human rights to be included in the United States-India Strategic Dialogue and for such issues to be raised directly with federal and state Indian government officials. Declares that the House of Representatives shares the opinion of the Department of State and the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom that the Gujarat government has not adequately pursued justice for the victims of religious violence in 2002 and expresses concern regarding reports about the complicity of local officials. Commends the U.S. government for exercising its authority in 2005 under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 to deny a U.S. visa to Narendra Modi on the grounds of religious freedom violations, and encourages it to review the applications of any individuals implicated in such violations under the same standard. Commends the role of India's National Human Rights Commission and the Indian Supreme Court, which has led to some convictions in Gujarat riot cases and the arrest of high-level leaders in the Gujarati administration. Calls on India to: (1) increase training on human rights and religious freedom standards and practices for police and the judiciary; and (2) empower the National Commission on Minorities with enforcement mechanisms. Calls on Gujarat and other Indian states with anti-conversion laws to repeal such legislation and ensure freedom to practice, propagate, and profess religion as enshrined in the Indian constitution. Encourages the establishment of an impartial body of interfaith religious leaders, human rights advocates, legal experts, and government officials to discuss and recommend actions to promote religious tolerance and understanding. Urges all political parties and religious organizations to publicly oppose the exploitation of religious differences and denounce harassment and violence against religious minorities.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to repeal the sixteenth article of amendment.

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2013

Constitutional Amendment - Repeals the Sixteenth Amendment to the Constitution and declares that Congress shall have no power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, except in time of war declared by Congress.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014

United States · United States Congress · 12 November 2013

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014 - Title I: Budget and Personnel Authorizations - Authorizes appropriations for FY2014 for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Office of the Director of National Intelligence; (2) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (3) Department of Defense (DOD); (4) Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA); (5) National Security Agency (NSA); (6) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (7) Coast Guard; (8) Departments of State, the Treasury, Energy (DOE), and Justice (DOJ); (9) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); (10) Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); (11) National Reconnaissance Office; (12) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; and (13) Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Provides that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2014, for intelligence activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations, which shall be made available to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations and the President. Authorizes the Director of National Intelligence to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY2014 when necessary for the performance of important intelligence functions. Requires notification to the congressional intelligence committees of the use of such authority. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account for FY2014, as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Title II: Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System - Authorizes appropriations for FY2014 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Title III: General Intelligence Community Matters - Declares that the authorization of appropriations by this Act shall not be deemed to authorize any intelligence activity which is not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or the laws of the United States. Directs the President to designate certain U.S. officers or employees as functional managers for signals intelligence, human intelligence, geospatial intelligence, and other necessary intelligence disciplines. Requires the chief information officer of each element of the intelligence community and the Chief Information Officer of the Intelligence Community to conduct inventories of all existing software licences of each element, including utilized and unutilized licenses. Extends the authority for the Public Interest Declassification Board until December 31, 2018. Amends the Inspector General Act of 1978 to permit an intelligence community employee or contractor who intends to report to Congress a complaint or information with respect to an urgent concern to report such complaint or information to the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community. Requires the head of an element of the intelligence community to notify the Director of National Intelligence upon determining that a U.S. person is engaged in acts of international terrorism against the United States such that the government is considering the legality or use of targeted lethal force against such person. Requires the President to prepare and make public an annual report on the use of targeted lethal force outside the United States. Requires the Attorney General to provide the congressional intelligence committees with a listing of every opinion of the DOD Office of Legal Counsel that has been provided to an element of the intelligence community. Requires reports on: (1) plans for the orderly shutdown of intelligence agencies in the absence of appropriations, (2) the Syrian chemical weapons program, and (3) penetrations of networks and information systems of intelligence contractors. Title IV: Matters Relating to Elements of the Intelligence Community - Amends the National Security Act of 1959 to require the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Inspector General of NSA to be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to require the Director of the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and the Inspector General of NRO to be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Title V: Security Clearance Reform - Requires the Director of National Intelligence, in consultation with the DOD Secretary and the Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), to conduct an analysis of the relative costs and benefits of improving the process for investigating persons for access to classified information. Amends the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 to prohibit an agency from rejecting another agency's access determination on the basis that such determination is out-of-scope, unless the rejecting agency does not employ any personnel who have background investigations that are out-of-scope. Requires the Director of National Intelligence to report on a strategic plan for improving the process for periodic background reinvestigations for updating security clearances. Title VI: Intelligence Community Whistleblower Protections - Extends whistleblower protections to employees of the intelligence community, including protections against retaliatory revocation of security clearances and adverse access determinations. Title VII: Other Matters - Eliminates the termination date for provisions requiring notification to congressional intelligence committees regarding the authorized disclosure of national intelligence or intelligence related to national security. Amends the Central Intelligence Agency Act of 1949 to authorize the CIA Director to engage in fundraising for the benefit of nonprofit organizations that provide support to surviving family members of deceased CIA employees.

Read the Bills Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 November 2013

Read the Bills Act - Requires any bill or resolution introduced in either chamber of Congress to contain a provision citing the specific powers granted to Congress in the Constitution to enact the proposed measure, including all of its provisions. Requires any measure introduced in either chamber, intended to amend or modify the effect of, or which would have such an effect, any current provision of law, including its expiration date, to set forth: (1) the current version of the entire section of the current law that the measure proposes to amend, verbatim; (2) the amendments being proposed by the measure; and (3) the section of law as it would read as modified by such amendments. Excludes measures which would strike the text of an entire section of a law. Prohibits the Clerk of the House of Representatives or the Secretary of the Senate from accepting legislation if it is noncompliant with these requirements. Applies such requirements to any legislation presented for consideration on the floor of either chamber. Prohibits any noncompliant measure from being submitted for a vote on final passage. Prohibits either chamber or Congress jointly from waiving or modifying these requirements. Bars a vote on final passage of a measure (except private bills) from occurring in either chamber, unless: (1) the full text of the measure is published at least seven days before the vote on an official website of each chamber, (2) public notice of the specific calendar week during which the vote is scheduled to take place is posted on the respective website within six days before the Monday of such week, and (3) there is a reading of its full text verbatim by the Clerk or the Secretary to the respective chamber. Requires a Member of Congress, before voting in favor of final passage of any measure (except a private bill) to sign an affidavit, executed under penalty of perjury, that the Member either: (1) was present throughout the entire reading of each such measure, and listened attentively to such reading in its entirety; or (2) before such vote, read attentively each such measure in its entirety. Prohibits either chamber or Congress jointly from waiving or modifying this requirement. Declares that an Act of Congress noncompliant with this Act shall have no force or effect. Bars any legal, equitable, regulatory, civil, or criminal action from being brought under such Act. Grants the following aggrieved individuals the right to bring an action against the United States to seek appropriate relief, including an injunction against the enforcement of any law, the passage of which did not conform to this Act: (1) persons aggrieved by an action of any executive officer or employee, (2) Members of Congress, and (3) persons individually aggrieved by the failure of his or her Senator or Member of the House of Representatives to fulfill their obligation under this Act.

Restoring the 10th Amendment Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 October 2013

Restoring the 10th Amendment Act - Authorizes a designated state official to submit to the head of a federal agency proposing a rule, during the period when the proposed rule is open for public comment, a legal brief challenging the constitutionality of the rule under the Tenth Amendment to the Constitution. Directs the agency head: (1) to notify the designated official of each state within 15 days after such a brief was submitted; (2) to post prominently on the front page of the agency's website a link to the brief; and (3) within 15 days after posting such link, to certify in writing that such rulemaking does not violate the Tenth Amendment and post the certification prominently on the agency's website next to the briefs pertaining to the rule, unless the agency determines not to finalize such proposed rule. Authorizes a designated state official, at any time after an agency head posts such a certification, to commence a civil action against the agency on the grounds that the rule violates the Tenth Amendment. Permits such state official, in addition to any other venue or jurisdiction provided by law, to bring such action in the U.S. district court for the district in which the official's place of business is located. Directs the appropriate U.S. court of appeals, upon the filing of a notice by a designated state official, to grant expedited review of a decision by the district court in such an action.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014

United States · United States Congress · 30 October 2013

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2014 for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Office of the Director of National Intelligence; (2) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (3) Department of Defense (DOD); (4) Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA); (5) National Security Agency (NSA); (6) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (7) Coast Guard; (8) Departments of State, the Treasury, Energy (DOE), and Justice (DOJ); (9) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); (10) Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); (11) National Reconnaissance Office; (12) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; and (13) Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2014, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations, which shall be made available to the congressional appropriations committees and the President. Allows the Director of National Intelligence, with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY2014 when necessary for the performance of important intelligence functions. Requires notification to the intelligence committees on the use of such authority. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account for FY2014, as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Authorizes appropriations for FY2014 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Permits appropriations authorized by this Act for salary, pay, retirement, and other benefits for federal employees to be increased by such additional or supplemental amounts as necessary for increases in such compensation or benefits authorized by law. Prohibits the authorization of appropriations by this Act from being deemed to constitute authority to conduct any intelligence activity not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or laws of the United States.

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 · 30 October 2013

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits a person from serving more than two consecutive terms as a Senator or six consecutive terms as a Representative.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to applying laws equally to the citizens of the United States and the Federal Government.

United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2013

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits Congress from making any law that is applicable to a U.S. citizen but not equally applicable to: (1) Congress; (2) the executive branch, including the President, Vice President, ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, and all other officers of the United States, including those provided for under the Constitution and by law; and (3) Justices of the Supreme Court and judges of inferior courts.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to applying laws equally to the citizens of the United States and the Federal Government.

United States · United States Congress · 22 October 2013

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits Congress from making any law that is applicable to a U.S. citizen but not equally applicable to: (1) Congress; (2) the executive branch, including the President, Vice President, ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, and all other officers of the United States, including those provided for under the Constitution and by law; and (3) Justices of the Supreme Court and judges of inferior courts.