Rule of law

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States regarding the effect of treaties, Executive orders, and agreements with other nations or groups of nations.

United States · United States Congress · 22 December 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits any treaty, executive order, or any agreement with any nation or group of nations or any of the provisions of such agreements, from being construed to diminish any of the rights or privileges guaranteed to U.S. citizens under the Constitution and federal law.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to the use of foreign law as authority in Federal courts.

United States · United States Congress · 22 December 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits U.S. courts, including the Supreme Court, from basing opinions or rulings on international laws, treaties, or religious laws. Makes any action of a court in violation of such prohibition null and void.

Presidential Succession Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 17 December 2010

Presidential Succession Act of 2010 - Revises provisions governing presidential succession to: (1) provide that the person next in line to succeed the President after the Vice President (currently, the Speaker of the House of Representatives) shall be the individual whose name is submitted by the President to the Clerk of the House from among the Speaker of the House, the Majority Leader of the House, or the Minority Leader of the House (or the Speaker until the President submits such name); (2) provide that the person next in line (currently the President Pro Tempore of the Senate) after such designated House leader shall be the individual whose name is submitted by the President to the Secretary of the Senate from among the Majority Leader of the Senate, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, or the Minority Leader of the Senate (or the Majority Leader of the Senate until the President submits such name); (3) include in the succession list, after the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Ambassadors to the United Nations, Great Britain, Russia, China, and France, in that order; and (4) provide that the taking of the oath of office by an individual specified in the succession list shall not require resignation from the office qualifying such individual for succession. Permits the succession list to include only such officers that are: (1) eligible to the office of President under the Constitution; (2) not under impeachment by the House of Representatives; and (3) except for the designated House or Senate leader, appointed to the office involved, by and with the Senate's advice and consent, prior to succession. Expresses the sense of Congress regarding: (1) to whom electors should give their votes in the event of the death or incapacity of nominees for President and Vice President; and (2) nomination by a President who will not be serving a succeeding term of individuals selected by the President-elect for offices that fall within the line of succession, confirmation of such nominees by the Senate, and the signing and delivery of commissions to all such approved nominations, before the inauguration of the President-elect, to ensure continuity of government.

Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to require House officers and employees to take annual factual training on the Constitution.

United States · United States Congress · 16 December 2010

Amends Rule XI (Procedures of Committees and Unfinished Business) of the Rules of the House of Representatives to require the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties of the Committee on the Judiciary to offer annual factual training on the Constitution to each House officer and employee. Requires the individuals to certify annually to the Subcommittee that they attended such training.

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to equal rights for men and women.

United States · United States Congress · 10 December 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits denying or abridging equality of rights under the law by the United States or by any state on account of sex.

Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to require the citation of the specific powers granted to Congress in the Constitution be included in introduced bills and joint resolutions as a basis for enacting the laws proposed by such bills and joint resolutions, including amendments and conference reports.

United States · United States Congress · 7 December 2010

Amends Rule XXI (Restrictions on Certain Bills) of the Rules of the House of Representatives to make it out of order to consider any bill or joint resolution, conference report, or amendment unless it contains a statement appropriately citing the specific powers granted to Congress in the Constitution as a basis for enacting the law proposed by such measure. Allows a statement of constitutionality to cite the 9th or 10th Amendment to the Constitution to the extent that any measure limits or abolishes any federal activity, spending, or power overall. States that invoking the common defense clause, the general welfare clause, or the necessary and proper clause of section 8 of article I of the Constitution is not sufficient to satisfy the requirements of this Rule. Makes it out of order to consider a rule or order waiving the application of this 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 · 30 November 2010

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.

Urging the Government of Belarus to conduct a free and fair presidential election on December 19, 2010, and expressing support for the Belarusian people's desire for democratic government that respects human rights and the rule of law.

United States · United States Congress · 16 November 2010

Urges the government of Belarus to conduct the December 19, 2010, election consistent with Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) commitments. Supports the Belarusian people's desire for democratic government that respects human rights and the rule of law. Asserts that it is in U.S. national interests that Belarus remain an independent state and become more democratic and integrated into the European family of nations and global society.

2010 ANNUAL REPORT: NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE RULE OF LAW IN CHINA

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 2010

Justice for Sergei Magnitsky Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2010

Justice for Sergei Magnitsky Act of 2010 - Directs the Secretary of State to publish a list of each individual the Secretary believes: (1) is responsible for the detention, abuse, or death of Sergei Magnitsky; (2) conspired to defraud the Russian Federation of taxes on corporate profits through fraudulent transactions and lawsuits against the foreign investment company known as Hermitage and to misappropriate Hermitage-owned entities; or (3) participated in efforts to conceal Mr. Magnitsky's detention, abuse, or death, or the existence of such conspiracy. Makes an alien on such list or a family member ineligible to enter or be admitted to the United States. Revokes any visa issued for such person. Authorizes the Secretary to waive such prohibition if in the U.S. national interest. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) instruct domestic financial institutions and agencies to take specified measures if the Secretary makes a money laundering determination relating to such conspiracy; and (2) freeze and prohibit U.S. property transactions of an individual who is on such list or acts as an agent for an individual on the list. Authorizes the Secretary to waive such actions if in the U.S. national interest. States that this Act shall cease to be effective when the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Treasury certify to Congress that: (1) the government of the Russian Federation has conducted a thorough and transparent investigation into Mr. Magnitsky's detention and death, and the related conspiracy: (2) the responsible individuals have been brought to justice according to the Russian Federation's laws and pursuant to its international legal obligations; and (3) the government of the Russian Federation has taken steps to bring its criminal justice and penal systems into compliance with international legal standards, has strengthened statutory protections for individuals who disclose evidence of illegal government activities, and has recognized Sergei Magnitsky's contribution to the fight against corruption and for the rule of law.

Supporting Law Enforcement through Lessons of the Holocaust Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2010

Supporting Law Enforcement through Lessons of the Holocaust Act - Directs the Attorney General to establish a competitive grant program for state and local law enforcement agencies to carry out training programs on the implications of the Holocaust for modern day law enforcement professionals. Requires any training program funded by this Act to examine: (1) the implications of the history of the Holocaust for individuals who are active law enforcement professionals on or after the enactment of this Act; (2) the relationship of law enforcement professionals to their communities; (3) the role and responsibility of law enforcement officials as protectors of the Constitution and civil liberties; (4) the procedures and practices that prevent abuse of the roles of law enforcement professionals; and (5) the core values of law enforcement and the connection of those values to Constitutional principles.

Repeal of the Authorization for Use of Military Force

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2010

Repeal of the Authorization for Use of Military Force - States that the Authorization for Use of Military Force (P.L. 107-40) has been used to justify an open-ended authorization for the use of military force and such an interpretation is inconsistent with the authority of Congress to declare war and make all laws for executing powers vested by the Constitution in the U.S. government. Repeals the Authorization for Use of Military Force (P.L. 107-40), effective 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States authorizing regulation of any expenditure in connection to an election.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Grants Congress the power to regulate any expenditure by a corporation in connection with an election for federal office. Grants each of the several states the power to regulate any expenditure by a corporation in connection with an election for state or local public office or a plebiscite in the state. Provides that nothing contained in this Amendment shall be construed to abridge the freedom of the press.

Returning several measures to the Senate.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 2010

Returns to the Senate specified bills, including the Senate amendment to H.R. 5875 (Emergency Border Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2010), because, in the opinion of the House of Representatives, they contravene the Constitution and infringe upon the privileges of the House.

To renew the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to approve demonstration projects designed to test innovative strategies in State child welfare programs.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

Amends title XI of the Social Security Act to renew through FY2016 the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to authorize states to conduct child welfare program demonstration projects likely to promote the objectives of part B (Child and Family Services) or E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA). Includes among the demonstration projects that may be approved any designed to: (1) identify and address barriers that result in delays to kinship guardianship for children in foster care; (2) provide early intervention and crisis intervention services that safely reduce out-of-home placements and improve child outcomes; or (3) identify and address domestic violence that endangers children and results in the placement of children in foster care. Prohibits the Secretary from authorizing a demonstration project if the state fails to provide health insurance coverage to any child with special needs for whom there is in effect a kinship guardianship agreement between the state and the adoptive parent or parents. Requires the Secretary, in assessing a demonstration project application submitted by a state in which a court order is in effect which has determined that the state's child welfare program has failed to comply with part B or E of SSA title IV, or with the U.S. Constitution, to take into consideration the state's ability to implement an approved corrective action. Requires any demonstration project application to include: (1) an accounting of any additional federal, state, local, and private investments made during the two fiscal years preceding the application to provide project services; and (2) an assurance that the state will provide an accounting of the same spending for each year of an approved project. Requires the mandatory project evaluation by an independent contractor to use an approved evaluation design which provides for a comparison of the amounts of federal, state, local and private investments in the project services, by service type, with the amount of the investments during the period of the project. Requires the evaluation design also to compare the outcomes for all children and families under the project who come to the attention of the state's child welfare program, either through a report of abuse or neglect or through the provision of project services.

AMERICA Resolution of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 2010

A Modest Effort to Read and Instill the Constitution Again Resolution of 2010 or AMERICA Resolution of 2010 - Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Members of Congress, who swear to uphold the Constitution of the United States and are responsible for writing laws regarding the powers granted to the government and proposing constitutional amendments, should read this important document, including its amendments. Amends Rule XI (Procedures of Committees and Unfinished Business) of the Rules of the House to require: (1) the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct to provide a copy of the Constitution to each new Member, Delegate, Resident Commissioner, officer, and employee of the House; and (2) House officers and employees to file a certification with the Committee attesting that such individuals have read the Constitution in its entirety in the previous year.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the Senate of each new Congress is not bound by the Rules of previous Senates.

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2010

Declares that the Senate of each new Congress is not bound by the rules of previous Senates and should, upon a motion by a Senator to bring debate to a close, if said motion receives the affirmative vote of a majority of the Senators, proceed to determine the Rules of its Proceedings in accordance with the Constitution.

Expressing the support for and honoring September 17, 2010 as "Constitution Day".

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2010

Expresses support for Constitution Day.

Czar Accountability Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Czar Accountability Act of 2010 - Directs the President, by January 1, 2011, and every six months thereafter, to submit a report to specified congressional committees that: (1) identifies each employee of the Executive Office of the President who is not appointed by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and who reports directly to the President and each employee of the Department of State who is not appointed by and with such advice and consent and who is an envoy or special representative; (2) describes the duties of each such employee; and (3) includes a certification that each such employee of Executive Office of the President is not exercising significant authority under U.S. law, that each such employee of the State Department is not an ambassador, other public minister, or consul, and that each such employee is not exercising any power that has been expressly delegated to the President by the Constitution.

Zimbabwe Sanctions Repeal Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Zimbabwe Sanctions Repeal Act of 2010 - Repeals the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act of 2001. (The Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act of 2001 prohibits U.S. support through international financial institutions for debt relief and other economic development aid to Zimbabwe until certain conditions to restore democracy and the rule of law are met.)

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States civil-military partnership in Iraq, under the current leadership of General Raymond Odierno and Ambassador Christopher Hill, has refined and sustained an effective counterinsurgency and counterterrorism strategy that has enabled significant improvements in the security, governance, and rule of law throughout Iraq, and that these leaders should be commended for their integrity, resourcefulness, commitment, and sacrifice.

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2010

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the U.S. counterinsurgency and counterterrorism strategies have successfully enabled the Iraqi government to reach major milestones in security, governance, and rule of law and have set the conditions for reducing U.S. combat units in Iraq and changing their mission to advising and assisting Iraqi Security Forces; (2) United States Forces-Iraq was instrumental in effecting the recruitment, training, retention, and employment of approximately 700,000 Iraqi Security Forces who have assumed and maintained the lead for security operations within Iraq; and (3) U.S. commanders, their troops, and their civilian partners should be commended for their ingenuity, resourcefulness, courage, commitment, sacrifice, dedication, and service.

A joint resolution proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits outlays for a fiscal year (except those for repayment of debt principal) from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year (except those derived from borrowing) unless Congress, by a two-thirds rollcall vote of each chamber, authorizes a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Requires a two-thirds rollcall vote of each chamber to increase the public debt limit. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress annually. Requires a two-thirds rollcall vote of each chamber before final adoption of any bill to increase internal revenue. Authorizes waivers of these provisions when a declaration of war is in effect or under other specified circumstances involving military conflict.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States allowing the States to call a limited convention solely for the purposes of considering whether to propose a specific amendment to the Constitution.

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Requires Congress, on application of the legislatures of two-thirds of the several states, each of which contains an identical amendment to the Constitution, to call a convention solely to decide whether to propose that specific amendment to the states.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives on the importance of the full implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement to help ensure peace and stability in Sudan during and after mandated referenda.

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2010

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the U.S. government should: (1) work with Sudanese parties and regional and international partners to build consensus on the steps needed to implement the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), including the upcoming referenda, and promote stability throughout Sudan; (2) work with international and Sudanese partners to ensure the right of return of Sudanese refugees and displaced persons, including Darfuris and southerners; (3) work with international partners to ensure a stable north-south border and a permanent peace in Sudan; and (4) assist the government of Southern Sudan to develop its economic, rule of law, and social service and educational infrastructures, improve democratic accountability and human rights, and strengthen reconciliation efforts.

Zimbabwe Renewal Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2010

Zimbabwe Renewal Act of 2010 - States that it is U.S. policy to support a transition to democratic and economic recovery in Zimbabwe that reflects the political conditions and opportunities created by the Global Political Agreement (GPA). Authorizes the Secretary of State to provide assistance to strengthen the rule of law and human rights in Zimbabwe. Authorizes the President, through the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), to provide assistance to Zimbabwe for: (1) sustainable development; (2) health care; (3) education; (4) agriculture; and (5) clean water. Direct the President to develop an emergency vocational youth work program for the construction and repair of public works of benefit to the entire population of Zimbabwe. Authorizes the President to provide economic assistance to Zimbabwe to support democracy and civil authority, human rights, economic self-sufficiency, education and health care, reconciliation, and GPA implementation. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to provide technical assistance to the Zimbabwean Ministry of Finance and line ministries. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) forgive the debt of Zimbabwe held by any U.S. government agency; and (2) direct the U.S. Executive Director at each international financial institution of which the United States is a member to vote in favor of programs for Zimbabwe. Expresses the sense of Congress that certain sanctions on financial institutions should be lifted to allow financial institutions to assist communal farmers, civil servants, pensioners, and the people of Zimbabwe, and that technical assistance should be provided to such institutions if: (1) the Finance Ministry of Zimbabwe does not politicize lending or extending credit; (2) no individual who is subject to U.S. or European Union (EU) sanctions serves as a board member, advisor, or employee of any financial institution in Zimbabwe; and (3) no funds are made available to Zimbabwe's Reserve Bank. Lifts targeted sanctions against a person upon a presidential certification to Congress that such person: (1) has taken significant steps to help strengthen democracy, respect human rights, and the rule of law in Zimbabwe; and (2) has played a constructive role in GPA implementation.

District of Columbia Full Self-Government Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 July 2010

District of Columbia Full Self-Government Act - Declares that: (1) this Act shall have no effect on existing law or regulation unless otherwise repealed or amended by this Act or an Act of Congress; and (2) the legislative power of the District shall extend to all rightful subjects of legislation within the District consistent with the U.S. Constitution and the provisions of this Act, subject to all the restrictions and limitations imposed upon the states by the Constitution. Establishes a Council of the District of Columbia and the Office of the Mayor. Prescribes requirements for treatment of District employees formerly covered by the Federal Civil Service System. Prohibits the Mayor's planning responsibility from extending to federal and District international projects and developments. Prescribes requirements granting the President emergency control of the Metropolitan Police Department. Declares that the District's judicial powers and the provisions of the District charter applicable to District judges and courts shall be those set forth in the District of Columbia Home Rule Act as in effect on the enactment of this Act. Subjects the process by which the District develops and enacts its fiscal year budget and related financial management activities to such laws as the District may enact. Declares that the full faith and credit of the United States is not pledged for any District obligations, nor is the United States responsible or liable for them. Exempts all District bonds and notes (and interest) from federal taxation, except estate, inheritance, and gift taxes. Authorizes certain entities to invest in District bonds and notes. Reserves Congress the right to exercise constitutional authority as legislature for the District. Repeals the District of Columbia Home Rule Act (establishing the existing District charter), but not any provision of law amended or repealed by such Act.

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to authorizing regulation of contributions to candidates for State public office and Federal office by corporations and labor organizations, and expenditures by corporate entities and labor organizations in support of, or opposition to such candidates.

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Gives Congress the power to regulate the contribution of funds by corporations and labor organizations to a candidate for election to, or nomination for election to, a federal office, and the power to regulate the expenditure of funds by corporations and labor organizations made in support of, or opposition to, such candidates. Gives a state the power to regulate the contribution of funds by corporations and labor organizations to a candidate for election to, or for nomination for election to, public office in the state, and the power to regulate the expenditure of funds by corporations and labor organizations made in support of, or opposition to, such candidates.

Union Member Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2010

Union Member Protection Act - Amends the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (Landrum-Griffin Act) to require a labor organization's mandatory report to the Secretary of Labor on its constitution, officers, and basic organization to include, in a clear and simple format, both: (1) a description of the specific nature and total amount of political expenditures the labor organization proposes to make for the upcoming fiscal year; and (2) a disclosure of how each labor organization officer voted on each political expenditure made by the organization during the preceding fiscal year. Prohibits a labor organization from making political expenditures unless: (1) they are of the nature of those proposed in such report; and (2) they have received a full, free, and written authorization by secret ballot by a majority of the labor organization members. Makes officers jointly and severally liable for authorizing a political expenditure without first obtaining the authorization of labor organization members. Requires labor organization bylaws to provide expressly for a vote of the organization's principal officers on individual political expenditures in excess of $50,000. Requires a labor organization to make public the individual votes of such officers within 48 hours, including in a clear and conspicuous location on its website.

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to a balanced budget.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Requires Congress to adopt for each fiscal year a budget that sets forth the total receipts and outlays of the United States. Requires a three-fifths rollcall vote of each chamber to adopt a budget in which total outlays exceed total receipts. Prohibits Congress from passing and the President from signing any bill which would cause the total outlays for any year to exceed the total expenditures in the budget for such year. Bars receipts in any year from being retained for use of the Treasury in an amount which exceeds as a proportion of the national income, that retained for the prior year, unless a bill directed solely at approving a specific increase in such proportion has been passed by a majority of each chamber and has become law. Authorizes waivers of these provisions when a declaration of war is in effect. Requires a two-thirds rollcall vote of each chamber to adopt an increase in federal taxes. States that if in any fiscal year the percentage of growth of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is negative, discretionary spending, excluding spending for defense and homeland security, in the next fiscal year shall not exceed the level of such spending for the preceding fiscal year reduced by that GDP percentage of negative growth.

Reaffirming the strength of the relationship between the United States and the Republic of Georgia.

United States · United States Congress · 20 July 2010

Recognizes the close relationship between the United States and the Republic of Georgia. Remembers the victims of the August 2008 military conflict between Georgia and the Russian Federation. Reaffirms support for a peaceful future for the region and for the unification of Georgia. Supports the implementation of the United States-Georgia Strategic Partnership and the continued growth of bilateral relations. Encourages Georgia to expand media freedoms, increase government transparency, promote democratic electoral processes, strengthen the rule of law, and implement judicial reforms.

Property Owners Access to Court Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 2010

Property Owners Access to Court Act of 2010 - Amends the federal judicial code to provide that, whenever a district court exercises jurisdiction in civil rights cases in which the operative facts concern the uses of real property, it shall not abstain from exercising such jurisdiction, or relinquish it to a state court, if the party seeking redress does not allege a violation of a state law, right, or privilege, and no parallel proceeding is pending in state court, at the time the action is filed in the district court, that arises out of the same operative facts as the district court proceeding. Declares that in an action in which operative facts concern the uses of real property, the district court shall exercise jurisdiction even if the party seeking redress does not pursue judicial remedies provided by a state or territory. Provides for referral of an unsettled question of state law to the state's highest appellate court. Prohibits the district court from certifying a question of state law unless it is necessary to resolve the merits of the injured party's federal claim, and such question is patently unclear. Declares that any claim or action to redress the deprivation of a property right or privilege secured by the Constitution shall be ripe for adjudication by the district courts upon a final decision rendered by any person acting under color of any law, regulation, custom, or usage of any state or U.S. territory that causes actual and concrete injury to the party seeking redress. Declares that any claim founded upon a property right or privilege secured by the Constitution, but allegedly infringed or taken by the United States, shall be ripe for adjudication upon a final decision rendered by the United States which causes actual and concrete injury to the party seeking redress. Amends the Revised Statutes of the United States and the federal judicial code with respect to certain constitutional property rights claims. Provides for the liability of the United States for certain claims, brought under U.S. district court jurisdiction or Court of Federal Claims jurisdiction, where the claim is founded upon a property right or privilege secured by the Constitution. Requires a federal agency, whenever it takes action limiting the use of private property that may be affected by the amendments made by this Act, to give notice to the owners of that property explaining their rights and the procedures for obtaining any compensation that may be due to them under such amendments.

Redistricting Reform Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 24 June 2010

Redistricting Reform Act of 2010 - Prohibits a state that has been redistricted after an apportionment from being redistricted again until after the next apportionment of Representatives, unless the state is ordered by a court to conduct such a subsequent redistricting in order to: (1) comply with the U.S. Constitution; or (2) enforce the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Requires such redistricting to be conducted according to: (1) a plan developed by the independent redistricting commission established in the state; or (2) if such plan is not enacted into law, the redistricting plan selected by the state's highest court or developed by a U.S. district court. Provides for: (1) establishment by each state of an independent redistricting commission; (2) development by such commission of a redistricting plan; (3) submission of the plan to, and consideration and enactment of a plan by, the state legislature; (4) selection of a plan by the state's highest court or development of a plan by the U.S. district court, under specified conditions; (5) special rules for redistricting conducted under a federal court order; (6) Election Assistance Commission payments to states for carrying out redistricting; (7) civil enforcement to carry out this Act; and (8) the right of action for a person who is aggrieved by a violation of this Act.

Expressing support for the private property rights protections guaranteed by the 5th Amendment to the Constitution on the 5th anniversary of the Supreme Court's decision of Kelo v. City of New London.

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 2010

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) state and local governments should only execute the power of eminent domain for the public good; (2) state and local governments must always justly compensate affected individuals in accordance with the Fifth Amendment; (3) eminent domain should never be used to advantage one private party over another; (4) no state or local government should construe Kelo v. City of New London (Kelo) as justification to abuse the power of eminent domain; and (5) Congress reserves the right to address, through legislation, any abuses of eminent domain by state and local governments in light of Kelo .

SPEECH Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2010

Securing the Protection of our Enduring and Established Constitutional Heritage Act or SPEECH Act - Prohibits a domestic court from recognizing or enforcing a foreign judgment for defamation unless the domestic court determines that: (1) the defamation law applied in the foreign court's adjudication provided at least as much protection for freedom of speech and press in that case as would be provided by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and by the constitution and law of the state in which the domestic court is located; or (2) even if the defamation law applied in the foreign court's adjudication did not provide this much protection for freedom of speech and press, the party opposing recognition or enforcement of that foreign judgment would have been found liable for defamation by a domestic court applying the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the constitution and law of the state in which the domestic court is located. Prohibits a domestic court from recognizing or enforcing a foreign judgment for defamation against the provider of an interactive computer service unless the domestic court determines that the judgment would be consistent with provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 affording protection for private blocking and screening of offensive material, if the information that is the subject of the judgment had been provided in the United States. Specifies circumstances for removal by a defendant to the appropriate U.S. district court, without regard to the amount in controversy, of any action brought in a state domestic court to enforce a foreign judgment for defamation. Provides that any U.S. person, against whom a foreign judgment is entered on the basis of the content of any writing, utterance, or other speech by that person that has been published, may bring an action in district court for a declaration that the foreign judgment is repugnant to the Constitution or laws of the United States. Expresses the sense of Congress that, for purposes of pleading a cause of action for a declaratory judgment, a foreign judgment for defamation or any similar offense shall constitute a case of actual controversy under the federal judicial code.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives on the one-year anniversary of the Government of Iran's fraudulent manipulation of Iranian elections, the Government of Iran's continued denial of human rights and democracy to the people of Iran, and the Government of Iran's continued pursuit of a nuclear weapons capability.

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2010

Reaffirms: (1) support for all Iranian citizens who struggle for freedom, human rights, civil liberties, and the rule of law; and (2) the universality of individual human and political rights. Condemns: (1) the violence and human rights abuses against the people of Iran by the government of Iran and pro-government militias, as well as the ongoing government suppression of independent electronic communication; and (2) the government of Iran's pursuit of a nuclear weapons capability and unconventional weapons and ballistic missile capabilities. Urges the release of all political prisoners detained by the government of Iran and the end of harassment and violence against the people of Iran. Calls for freedom and democracy for the people of Iran, including democratic and independent elections in Iran.

A joint resolution to provide for the reconsideration and revision of the proposed constitution of the United States Virgin Islands to correct provisions inconsistent with the Constitution and Federal law.

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 2010

Expresses the sense of Congress that Congress: (1) recognizes the commitment and efforts of the Fifth Constitutional Convention of the U.S. Virgin Islands to develop a proposed constitution; and (2) urges the Fifth Constitutional Convention of the U.S. Virgin Islands to reconvene to reconsider and revise the proposed constitution in response to the views of the executive branch of the federal government. Provides that if a convention reconvenes and revises the proposed constitution the convention shall resubmit the revised proposed constitution simultaneously to the Governor of the Virgin Islands and the President. Directs the President, within 60 calendar days after the date of receipt of the revised proposed constitution, to: (1) notify the convention, the Governor, and Congress of the President's comments on the revised proposed constitution; and (2) publish the comments in the Federal Register.

Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits outlays for a fiscal year (except those for repayment of debt principal) from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year (except those derived from borrowing) unless Congress, by a three-fifths rollcall vote of each chamber, authorizes a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Requires a three-fifths rollcall vote of each chamber to increase the public debt limit. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress annually. Prohibits any bill to increase revenue from becoming law unless approved by three-fifths of each chamber by rollcall vote. Authorizes waivers of these provisions when a declaration of war is in effect or under other specified circumstances involving military conflict.

A resolution marking the one year anniversary of the June 12, 2009, presidential election in Iran, and condemning ongoing human rights abuses in Iran.

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 2010

Marks one year since the flawed June 12, 2009, presidential election in Iran, and honors Iranian citizens who have lost their lives in peaceful protest since the election. Supports the people of Iran as they seek peaceful and free expression, free speech, free press, free assembly, unfettered access to the Internet, and freedom of religion despite a campaign of intimidation, repressions, and violence perpetrated by the government of Iran. Commends the people of Iran who have braved the persistent and pervasive threat of censorship, arrest, physical harassment, and death to have their voices heard and peacefully exercise fundamental human rights, as enshrined in the constitution of Iran and international human rights law. Condemns the government of Iran for perpetrating ongoing human rights abuses and for restricting, monitoring, and suppressing freedom of the press, expression, assembly, speech, and religion, as well as free access to the Internet and other forms of connective technology. Denounces the atmosphere of impunity for those who intimidate, harass, and commit violence against Iranian citizens, and calls for the unconditional release of all political and religious prisoners in Iran. Urges the President and Secretary of State to mobilize resources to support freedom of assembly, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and freedom of speech in Iran, especially on the June 12 anniversary of the 2009 presidential election. Encourages the President and Secretary of State to work with the United Nations (U.N.) Human Rights Council to condemn the ongoing human rights violations perpetrated by the government of Iran and establish a mechanism by which the Council can monitor such violations. Urges the government of Iran to cooperate with and allow visits of the U.N. Special Rapporteurs for Human Rights and the U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Urges the President and Secretary of State to work with the international community to ensure that violations of human rights are part of all formal and informal multilateral or bilateral discussions with and regarding Iran. Calls for the immediate return of all missing and detained U.S. citizens in Iran.

Congratulating the Republic of Serbia's application for European Union membership and recognizing Serbia's active efforts to integrate into Europe and the global community.

United States · United States Congress · 27 May 2010

Applauds the people of Serbia for their commitment to democracy, free markets, tolerance, and the rule of law. Urges the European Council to adopt a clear position on Serbia's qualifications as a candidate country. Recognizes Serbia's cooperation with the United States on issues such as democratization, anti-drug trafficking, anti-terrorism, human rights, regional cooperation, and trade. Urges the government of Serbia to intensify efforts to capture and transfer at-large indictees Goran Hadzic and Ratko Mladic to the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY).

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Requires the concurrence of two-thirds of the Members of each house of Congress for final adoption of any legislation changing the internal revenue laws, unless such legislation is determined not to increase the internal revenue by more than a de minimis amount. Permits a waiver of this requirement when a declaration of war is in effect or when the United States is engaged in military conflict which causes an imminent and serious threat to national security and is so declared by a joint resolution which becomes law. Prohibits any increase in the internal revenue enacted under such a waiver from lasting more than two years.

Sons and Daughters of America Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 May 2010

Sons and Daughters of America Act - Limits the remedies of an injured party in a civil action for deprivation of rights to injunctive and declaratory relief where the deprivation is a deprivation of the right to freedom of speech secured by the Constitution and is under the authority of a statute, ordinance, regulation, custom, or usage which prohibits or restricts picketing, protesting, or demonstrating at, or in proximity to, a funeral or any other ceremony, procession, or memorial service held in connection with the burial or cremation of the dead. Prohibits the award of attorney's fees to a prevailing party in any action that is brought against the United States or any federal agency or official acting in his or her official capacity and that alleges such an injury.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the primary safeguard for the well-being and protection of children is the family, and that the primary safeguards for the legal rights of children in the United States are the Constitutions of the United States and the several States, and that, because the use of international treaties to govern policy in the United States on families and children is contrary to principles of self-government and federalism, and that, because the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child undermines traditional principles of law in the United States regarding parents and children, the President should not transmit the Convention to the Senate for its advice and consent.

United States · United States Congress · 19 May 2010

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is incompatible with the U.S. Constitution, laws, and traditions; (2) the Convention would undermine presumptions of freedom and independence for U.S. families; (3) the Convention would interfere with the principles of U.S. sovereignty, independence, and self-government that preclude the propriety of adopting international law to govern domestic matters; and (4) the President should not transmit the Convention to the Senate for its advice and consent.

DRUG ENFORCEMENT AND THE RULE OF LAW: MEXICO AND COLOMBIA

United States · United States Senate · 18 May 2010

Save America's Future Economy Act of 2010

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2010

Save America's Future Economy Act of 2010 - Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to require the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to calculate the uniform percentage by which nonexempt spending accounts are to be sequestered such that total government spending for a budget year, compared to the preceding fiscal year, does not increase at a rate greater than the percentage point change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus the percentage point change in annual population growth. Requires OMB to prepare annually a report to be included in the President's budget for each fiscal year setting forth: (1) the projected level of total federal spending for the current year; (2) the percentage point increase in the CPI over the fiscal year before the current year; (3) the total percentage point increase in population from July 1 of the second preceding fiscal year before the current year and July 1 of the fiscal year before the current year; (4) the sum of such total percentage point increases; and (5) the projected level of total federal spending for the budget year and the amount, if any, by which that spending would exceed the projected level of total federal spending for the current year, as adjusted by the such sum of the total percentage point increases. Prescribes requirements for OMB Preview Reports and OMB Final Sequestration Reports. Requires the President to issue a sequestration order, effective on issuance, if OMB in its Final Sequestration Report estimates that any sequestration is required. Prohibits OMB from including the budgetary effects of an emergency requirement in its estimates. Exempts from any sequestration reduction order: (1) payments for net interest; and (2) federal obligations required to be paid under the U.S. Constitution or legally contractual obligations. Extends indefinitely certain Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) enforcement mechanisms.

Honoring the historic and community significance of the Chatham County Courthouse and expressing condolences to Chatham County and the town of Pittsboro for the fire damage sustained by the courthouse on March 25, 2010.

United States · United States Congress · 18 May 2010

Expresses condolences to the North Carolina court system, Chatham County, and the town of Pittsboro for the tragic loss of the Chatham County Courthouse. Commends the heroic actions of the Chatham County firefighters and first responders who worked tirelessly to combat the Courthouse fire, minimize the damage to the Courthouse and the historic materials contained therein, and protect the public. Recognizes the community significance of the Courthouse as both the most significant historic landmark and the cornerstone of justice and the rule of law in Chatham County. recognizes the impact that more than a century of landmark court decisions has made on the judicial system of the Town of Pittsboro, Chatham County, and North Carolina. Recognizes the impact that more than a century of landmark court decisions has made on the judicial system of the town of Pittsboro, Chatham County, and North Carolina.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States giving Congress power to regulate campaign contributions for Federal elections.

United States · United States Congress · 13 May 2010

Constitutional Amendment - Gives Congress the power to prohibit, limit, and otherwise regulate the contribution of funds or donation of in-kind equivalents: (1) to candidates standing for election to a federal office in the United States; and (2) used to support or purchase media advertisements intended to influence the outcome of any such election. Gives each of the several states the power to prohibit, limit, and otherwise regulate the contribution of funds or donation of in-kind equivalents: (1) to candidates standing for election to public office in the state; and (2) used to support or purchase media advertisements intended to influence the outcome of any such election or plebiscite in the state. Prohibits any person who is not a U.S. citizen or is a foreign government, or acts as an agent of one, from: (1) contributing funds or donating in-kind equivalents to candidates standing for election to public office in the United States; or (2) otherwise expending funds or donating in-kind equivalents in a manner intended to influence the outcome of an election for public office or plebiscite in the United States.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the primary safeguard for the well-being and protection of children is the family, and that the primary safeguards for the legal rights of children in the United States are the Constitutions of the United States and the several States, and that, because the use of international treaties to govern policy in the United States on families and children is contrary to principles of self-government and federalism, and that, because the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child undermines traditional principles of law in the United States regarding parents and children, the President should not transmit the Convention to the Senate for its advice and consent.

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 2010

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is incompatible with the U.S. Constitution, laws, and traditions; (2) the Convention would undermine presumptions of freedom and independence for U.S. families; (3) the Convention would interfere with the principles of U.S. sovereignty, independence, and self-government that preclude the propriety of adopting international law to govern domestic matters; and (4) the President should not transmit the Convention to the Senate for its advice and consent.

Reaffirming "In God We Trust" as the official motto of the United States and supporting and encouraging the public display of the national motto in all public buildings, public schools, and other government institutions.

United States · United States Congress · 5 May 2010

Recognizes that trust in God is embedded into the fabric of this country's society and history. Rejects the notion that the laws and Constitution of this country require the exclusion of God from matters of government and public life. Reaffirms "In God We Trust" as the official motto of the United States. Supports and encourages its display in all public buildings, public schools, and other government institutions.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 2010

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2011 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, and Justice; (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. Specifies that the amounts authorized and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 2011, 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 FY2011 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 FY2011, as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Authorizes appropriations for FY2011 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.

Honoring the historic and community significance of the Chatham County Courthouse and expressing condolences to Chatham County and the town of Pittsboro for the fire damage sustained by the courthouse on March 25, 2010.

United States · United States Congress · 20 April 2010

Expresses condolences to the North Carolina court system, Chatham County, and the town of Pittsboro for the tragic loss of the Chatham County Courthouse. Commends the heroic actions of the Chatham County firefighters and first responders who worked tirelessly to combat the Courthouse fire, minimize the damage to the Courthouse and the historic materials contained therein, and protect the public. Recognizes the community significance of the Courthouse as both the most significant historic landmark and the cornerstone of justice and the rule of law in Chatham County.