Rule of law

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 · 20 December 2011

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. Requires Congress to set forth a legal public holiday for the purpose of voting in regularly scheduled general elections for federal office.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve to 4 in the House of Representatives and 2 in the Senate.

United States · United States Congress · 20 December 2011

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

To amend the detainee provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012 to specifically state that United States citizens may not be detained against their will without all the rights of due process afforded to citizens in a court ordained or established by or under Article III of the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 15 December 2011

Amends detainee and military custody provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012, with respect to the authority of the President and the U.S. Armed Forces pursuant the Authorization for Use of Military Force (P.L. 107-40), to specify that no U.S. citizen may be detained against his or her will without all the rights of due process afforded to the citizen in a court ordained or established by or under Article III of the U.S. Constitution.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to limits on the number of terms a Member of Congress may serve.

United States · United States Congress · 15 December 2011

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

THE STATE OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE RULE OF LAW IN RUSSIA: U.S. POLICY OPTIONS

United States · United States Senate · 14 December 2011

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to expressly exclude for-profit corporations from the rights given to natural persons by the Constitution of the United States, prohibit corporate spending in all elections, and affirm the authority of Congress and the States to regulate corporations and to regulate and set limits on all election contributions and expenditures.

United States · United States Congress · 8 December 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Declares that the rights protected by the Constitution are the rights of natural persons and do not extend to for-profit corporations, limited liability companies, or other private entities established for business purposes or to promote business interests under the laws of any state, the United States, or any foreign state. Declares that such corporate and other private entities are subject to regulation by the people through the legislative process so long as such regulations are consistent with the powers of Congress and the states and do not limit the freedom of the press. Prohibits such corporate and other private entities from making contributions or expenditures in any election of any candidate for public office or the vote upon any ballot measure submitted to the people. Grants Congress and the states the power to regulate and set limits on all election contributions and expenditures, including a candidate's own spending, and to authorize the establishment of political committees to receive, spend, and publicly disclose the sources of those contributions and expenditures.

Balancing Our Obligations for the Long-Term Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 7 December 2011

Balancing Our Obligations for the Long-Term Act of 2011 - Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to establish for FY2030-FY2050: (1) direct spending limits, and (2) total spending limits. Prescribes certain deficit control mechanisms (sequestration and reduction orders) for such period. Requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to: (1) determine common scorekeeping guidelines, and (2) prepare estimates in conformance with such guidelines. Prescribes and/or revises requirements for discretionary, direct, total, and deficit sequestration preview and final reports. Eliminates Pay-As-You-Go reports. Adds the following programs and activities to the list exempted from sequestration orders: (1) obligated balances of budget authority carried over from prior fiscal years; (2) federal obligations required to be paid under the U.S. Constitution or legally contractual obligations; (3) Claims, Judgments, and Relief Acts (20-1895-0-1-808); and (4) intragovernmental transfers. Modifies and/or repeals certain mandatory general and special sequestration rules. Amends the Act to establish the baseline for the three 10-fiscal years beginning after the last such outyear based on enacted law, as an estimate of current year levels of budget authority, outlays, or receipts for: (1) discretionary spending; (2) Medicare; (3) Medicaid and other health-related spending; (4) other direct spending; (5) social security; (6) other categories, as appropriate; and (7) net interest. Amends the Congessional Budget Act of 1974 (CBA) to require the Director of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to make an annual projection for at least 40 years of total spending, revenue, deficits, and debt beginning with the first fiscal year after the last fiscal year covered in the most recently enacted budget resolution as a percentage of current projected gross domestic product (GDP), based on current law and current law levels as modified to maintain current policy. Requires CBO to issue an annual Spending Review Report on the solvency of the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) Trust Fund and the long-range sustainability of the spending levels of Medicare, Medicaid and other health-related spending as well as other direct spending. Prescribes procedures for introduction and expedited consideration in each chamber of spending review legislation if such report indicates OASDI Trust Fund insolvency or the non-sustainability of other specified direct spending. Replaces the requirement that budget resolutions include new budget authority and outlays for each major functional category with a requirement that they include subtotals of new budget authority and outlays for nondefense discretionary spending, defense discretionary spending, Medicare, Medicaid and other health-related spending, other direct spending (excluding interest), contingencies, and net interest. Requires budget resolutions to set forth appropriate levels, as a percent of the current GDP, for total federal revenues, total outlays, debt held by the public, and the surplus or deficit in the budget for the 10th, 20th, and 30th fiscal years after the last fiscal year of the budget resolution (long-term budgeting). Requires inclusion in a budget resolution of specified long-term reconciliation directives. Requires CBO to estimate whether each measure reported from committee (except those under the Committee on Appropriations) causes a net increase in direct spending in excess of $5 billion in any of the four ensuing 10-year periods. Makes it out of order in both chambers to consider any measure that causes such a net increase in deficits. Requires CBO to prepare a specified long-term cost analysis and submit it to the requesting chairman or ranking member of the congressional budget committee or of the committee of jurisdiction for: (1) major legislation reported by any congressional committee, and (2) any bill or resolution requested by such chairman or ranking member. Requires inclusion of specified long-term budgeting in the President's budget submission. Requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report, in the President's budget submission, on the federal government's financial condition, including the long-term unfunded obligations. Amends the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 to revise legislative procedures for congressional consideration of the President's proposed legislation in response to a Medicare funding warning (Medicare trigger). Requires the appropriate chairman of the congressional budget committee to adjust the appropriate allocations, aggregates, and other levels to reflect the budget impact achieved by such introduced legislation for CBA purposes, the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act, the Rules of the House of Representatives, or the Standing Rules of the Senate.

Second Amendment Protection Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 7 December 2011

Second Amendment Protection Act of 2011 - Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should not adopt any treaty that poses a threat to national sovereignty or abridges the rights guaranteed by the Constitution, such as the right to bear arms, and should cease the provision of financial support to any entity that does so. Prohibits the United States from providing any funding to the United Nations (U.N.) for a fiscal year unless the President certifies to Congress that the U.N. has not taken action to infringe on the rights of individuals in the United States to possess a firearm or ammunition, or abridge any of the other constitutionally protected rights of U.S. citizens.

Spending Control Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 7 December 2011

Spending Control Act of 2011 - Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to establish for FY2013-FY2021: (1) direct spending limits, (2) total spending limits, and (3) deficit limits. Prescribes certain deficit control mechanisms (sequestration and reduction orders) for such period. Requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to: (1) determine common scorekeeping guidelines, and (2) prepare estimates in conformance with such guidelines. Requires OMB and CBO each to make annual comparisons for the current and the ten ensuing fiscal years of projected total deficits and specified deficit limits. Repeals the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010. Prescribes and/or revises requirements for direct, total, and deficit sequestration preview and final reports. Eliminates Pay-As-You-Go reports. Adds the following programs and activities to the list exempted from sequestration orders: (1) obligated balances of budget authority carried over from prior fiscal years; (2) federal obligations required to be paid under the U.S. Constitution or legally contractual obligations; (3) Claims, Judgments, and Relief Acts (20-1895-0-1-808); and (4) intragovernmental transfers. Modifies and/or repeals certain mandatory general and special sequestration rules. Requires an appropriate adjustment for the discretionary spending limit of an outyear if an appropriation for the budget year causes a change in direct spending in that outyear. Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (CBA) to: (1) repeal the current requirement for adjusting the allocation of discretionary spending in the House of Representatives if a budget resolution is not adopted by April 15, and (2) allow the joint explanatory statement accompanying a conference report on a budget resolution to include an allocation of the level for the global war on terrorism (GWOT) for that fiscal year. Prescribes administrative and legislative procedures for emergency and GWOT adjustments. Amends the CBA to make it out of order in both chambers to consider legislation, if the provisions of such measure have the net effect of increasing direct spending for the current year, the budget year, and the four or nine fiscal years following that budget year. (Thus enforces Cut-As-You-Go.) Repeals Clause 10 of Rule XXI (Restrictions on Certain Bills) of the Rules of the House of Representatives. Amends the CBA to permit waiver or suspension in the Senate of certain prohibitions under such Act and the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act, or successful appeals from rulings of the Chair, only by an affirmative vote of three-fifths (60) of the Members.

A resolution supporting the democratic aspirations of the Nicaraguan people and calling attention to the deterioration of constitutional order in Nicaragua.

United States · United States Congress · 6 December 2011

Supports the democratic aspirations of the people of Nicaragua. Deplores the interruption of constitutional order in Nicaragua that led to the fraudulent reelection of Daniel Ortega on November 6, 2011. Condemns the acts of violence perpetrated on election day and calls upon Nicaraguan authorities to prosecute those responsible. Urges: (1) President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton to take measures to encourage the restoration of constitutional rule in Nicaragua; (2) issuance of a final report on the Mission of Electoral Accompaniment of the Organization of American States (OAS); and (3) the U.S. Ambassador to the OAS to lead an OAS effort to restore democracy and the rule of law in Nicaragua, including formally suspending the Nicaraguan government under Articles 20 and 21 of the Inter-American Democratic Charter.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to the authority of Congress and the States to regulate the disbursement of funds for political activity by for-profit corporations and other for-profit business organizations.

United States · United States Congress · 6 December 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Gives Congress and the states the authority to regulate the disbursement of funds for political activity by for-profit corporations, other for-profit business entities, or other business organizations, without regard to whether or not the activity is carried out independently from any candidate or political party.

Calling on the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to respect basic human rights and cease abusing vague national security provisions such as articles 79 and 88 of the Vietnamese penal code which are often the pretext to arrest and detain citizens who peacefully advocate for religious and political freedom.

United States · United States Congress · 6 December 2011

Condemns the crackdown in the Socialist Republic of Vietnam against community organizers, bloggers, and democracy activists. Calls on the government of Vietnam to: (1) repeal articles 79 and 88 of the Vietnamese penal code and similar vague national security measures used to persecute peaceful political dissent; and (2) release all political prisoners, especially activists, writers, and bloggers who have been detained or sentenced under articles 79 and 88. Urges the Department of State to monitor rule of law developments in Vietnam.

Job Creation Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2011

Job Creation Act of 2011 - Title I: Trade - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) Congress should continue to work with the Administration to expand trading markets; (2) the President should pursue quick entry into force of the United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, the United States-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement, and the United States-Korea Free Trade Agreement; and (3) the future growth of the U.S. economy requires this pro-growth strategy. Expresses the sense of Congress that China's intellectual property rights violations are a problem for the U.S. economy. Title II: Tax Reform - Expresses the sense of Congress that reforming the federal tax code will benefit taxpayers and the U.S. economy. Title III: Balanced Budget Amendment - Expresses the sense of Congress that it needs to pass a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution and send it to the states for ratification. Title IV: Energy - American Energy Independence and Price Reduction Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to implement a competitive leasing program for the exploration, development, and production of the oil and gas resources on the Coastal Plain of Alaska. Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 to repeal the prohibition against leasing or other development leading to production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Deems any oil and gas leasing programs and activities authorized by this Act to be in compliance with ANWR purposes. Authorizes the Secretary to designate up to 45,000 acres of the Coastal Plain as a Special Area, after consultation with the state of Alaska, the city of Kaktovik, and the North Slope Borough. Permits directional drilling in the Special Area. Prescribes procedures governing Coastal Plain lease sales, as well as terms and conditions, including: (1) environmental protection; (2) federal and state distribution of revenues; (3) rights-of-way; and (4) local government impact aid and community service assistance. Sets forth: (1) a "no significant adverse effect" standard to govern Coastal Plain activities; and (2) guidelines for expedited judicial review of complaints. Establishes the ANWR Alternative Energy Trust Fund. Title V: Reduction In Federal Workforce - Requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to take appropriate measures to ensure that: (1) the total number of federal employees, beginning in FY2015, does not exceed 90% of the total number of such employees as of September 30, 2011; (2) until the end of FY 2014,agencies do not appoint more than one employee for every three employees retiring or otherwise separating from government service; and (3) there is no increase in the procurement of service contracts due to this Act unless a cost comparison demonstrates that such contracts would be financially advantageous to the federal government. Requires OMB to continuously monitor all agencies and make a determination as to whether the total number of federal employees exceeds the limitation imposed by this Act. Prohibits a federal agency from filling any vacancy unless OMB provides written notice to the President and Congress that the number of federal employees does not exceed the limitation established by this Act. Allows the President to waive the workforce limitations imposed by this Act if the President determines that the existence of a state of war or other national security concern or the existence of an extraordinary emergency threatening life, health, public safety, property, or the environment so requires. Allows the President additional discretion to waive such workforce limitations if the President determines that the efficiency of a federal agency or the performance of its critical mission so requires. Title VI: Repeal of Employer Health Insurance Mandate - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal provisions added by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act requiring certain employers who have a workforce of 50 or more full-time employees to provide health insurance coverage for their employees. Title VII: Secret Ballot Protection Act - Secret Ballot Protection Act - Amends the National Labor Relations Act to make it an unfair labor practice for: (1) an employer to recognize or bargain collectively with a labor organization that has not been selected by a majority of the employees in a unit appropriate for such purposes in a secret ballot election conducted by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), or (2) a labor organization to cause or attempt to cause an employer to recognize or bargain collectively with a representative that has not been selected in such manner. Title VIII: Federal Rules of Civil Procedure Improvements - Amends Rule 11 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (sanctions for filing a frivolous lawsuit) to: (1) require courts to award reasonable expenses, including attorney's fees, to a prevailing party in a Rule 11 proceeding (currently discretionary); and (2) eliminate the 21-day period allowed for withdrawing or correcting a claim deemed frivolous. Requires state courts to apply Rule 11 to actions in state courts that substantially affect interstate commerce. Limits venue for personal injury claims filed in state or federal courts to the county or district: (1) in which the plaintiff or defendant resides, (2) where the plaintiff resided at the time of the alleged injury, or (3) the district in which the defendant's principal place of business is located. Imposes additional sanctions: (1) on attorneys who are found to violate Rule 11 three or more times, and (2) for willful and intentional destruction of documents relevant to a pending action in federal court. Establishes a rebuttable presumption of a Rule 11 violation if a plaintiff attempts to litigate a claim that has already been litigated and lost on the merits. Prohibits a court in a Rule 11 proceeding from ordering the nondisclosure of the record of the proceeding unless the court makes a specific finding of fact that justifies such an order. Title IX: Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act of 2011 - Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act of 2011 - Amends the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (RFA) to revise the definition of "rule" under such Act to exclude a rule of particular (and not general) applicability relating to rates, wages, and other financial indicators and to define "economic impact" with respect to a proposed or final rule as any direct economic effect on small entities from such rule and any indirect economic effect on small entities that is reasonably foreseeable and that results from such rule. Includes tribal organizations within the definition of "small governmental jurisdictions" for purposes of such Act. Requires initial and final regulatory flexibility analyses to: (1) describe alternatives to a proposed rule that minimize any adverse significant economic impact or maximize the beneficial significant economic impact on small entities, and (2) include revisions or amendments to a land management plan developed by the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary of the Interior under specified Acts. Expands elements of initial and final regulatory flexibility analyses under RFA to include estimates and descriptions of the cumulative economic impact of a proposed rule on a small entity. Repeals provisions allowing a waiver or delay of the completion of an initial regulatory flexibility analysis. Requires the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration (SBA) to issue rules governing federal agency compliance with RFA requirements. Authorizes the Chief Counsel to modify or amend such rules, to intervene in agency adjudication relating to such rules, and to inform an agency of the impact of its rulemaking on small entities. Revises requirements for agency notification of the SBA Chief Counsel for Advocacy prior to the publication of any proposed rule. Requires agencies to provide the Chief Counsel with: (1) all materials prepared or utilized in making the proposed rule, and (2) information on the potential adverse and beneficial economic impacts of the proposed rule on small entities. Requires each agency to publish in the Federal Register a plan for the periodic review of existing and new rules that have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities to determine whether such rules should be continued, changed, or rescinded. Provides for judicial review of an agency final rule for compliance with RFA requirements after the publication of such rule. Grants federal courts of appeal jurisdiction to review all final rules issued in accordance with RFA.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to expressly exclude for-profit corporations from the rights given to natural persons by the Constitution of the United States, prohibit corporate spending in all elections, and affirm the authority of Congress and the States to regulate corporations and to regulate and set limits on all election contributions and expenditures.

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Declares that the rights protected by the Constitution are the rights of natural persons and do not extend to for-profit corporations, limited liability companies, or other private entities established for business purposes or to promote business interests under the laws of any state, the United States, or any foreign state. Declares that such corporate and other private entities are subject to regulation by the people through the legislative process so long as such regulations are consistent with the powers of Congress and the states and do not limit the freedom of the press. Prohibits such corporate and other private entities from making contributions or expenditures in any election of any candidate for public office or the vote upon any ballot measure submitted to the people. Grants Congress and the states the power to regulate and set limits on all election contributions and expenditures, including a candidate's own spending, and to authorize the establishment of political committees to receive, spend, and publicly disclose the sources of those contributions and expenditures.

Authorizing the printing of the 25th edition of the pocket version of the United States Constitution.

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2011

Authorizes the printing as a House document of the 25th edition of the pocket version of the U.S. Constitution. Prescribes requirements in each chamber for distribution of copies of the printed document for their respective use.

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

United States · United States Congress · 17 November 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits estimated outlays of the operating funds of the United States for any fiscal year from exceeding total estimated receipts to those funds for that fiscal year unless Congress, by a three-fifths roll-call vote of each chamber, approves a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress annually. Prohibits any bill to increase revenue from becoming law unless approved by a majority of each chamber by roll-call vote. Authorizes waivers of these provisions for any fiscal year and the first fiscal year thereafter if: (1) a declaration of war is in effect, or (2) the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that real economic growth has been or will be less than 1% for two consecutive quarters during the period of those two fiscal years. Authorizes waivers for any fiscal year under other specified circumstances involving military conflict or if a presidential declaration of major disaster is in effect. Excludes: (1) from estimated receipts, specified funds derived from net borrowing; (2) from estimated outlays, funds for repayment of debt principal and for capital investments; and (3) from receipts or outlays, receipts (including attributable interest) and outlays of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund.

National Women's History Museum and Federal Facilities Consolidation and Efficiency Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2011

National Women's History Museum and Federal Facilities Consolidation and Efficiency Act of 2011 - National Women's History Museum Act of 2011 - Directs the Administrator of General Services (GSA) to convey, by quitclaim deed, to the National Women's History Museum, Inc. (the Museum) specified property (commonly known as the "Cotton Annex" site) in the District of Columbia, on terms which the Administrator deems appropriate. Requires the purchase price for the property to be: (1) its market value based on its highest and best use, as determined by an independent appraisal performed under the assumption that the property does not contain any hazardous substances, waste, or pollutants requiring a response under applicable environmental laws; and (2) paid into the Federal Buildings Fund. Requires the property to be dedicated for use as a site for a national women's history museum for a 99-year period. Prohibits using federal funds to purchase the property or design and construct any facility on such property. Federal Trade Commission and National Gallery of Art Facility Consolidation, Savings, and Efficiency Act of 2011 - Requires the Administrator, not later than December 31, 2012, to transfer administrative jurisdiction, custody, and control of the building located at 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, in Washington, DC, to the National Gallery of Art and to name such building as the North Building of the National Gallery of Art. Requires the National Gallery of Art to pay the costs of remodeling, renovating, or reconstructing such building. Prohibits the use of appropriated funds for the initial costs of such activities. Requires the Administrator to relocate the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) employees and operations housed in such building to specified space in the leased building known as the Constitution Center located at 400 7th Street, SW, in Washington, DC. Directs the Administrator and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to execute an occupancy agreement to assign or sublease such space.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to clarify the authority of Congress and the States to regulate corporations, limited liability companies or other corporate entities established by the laws of any state, the United States, or any foreign state.

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Declares that: (1) the rights protected by the Constitution are intended to be the rights of natural persons; and (2) the words "people," "person," or "citizen" as used in the Constitution do not include corporations, limited liability companies, or other corporate entities established by the laws of any state, the United States, or any foreign state, and that such corporate entities are subject to such regulation as the people, through their elected state and federal representatives, deem reasonable and are otherwise consistent with the powers of Congress and the states. Prohibits this Amendment from limiting the rights of freedom of speech, the press, exercise of religion, association, and all such other inalienable rights of the people.

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

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits estimated outlays of the operating funds of the United States for any fiscal year from exceeding total estimated receipts to those funds for that fiscal year unless Congress, by a three-fifths roll-call vote of each chamber, approves a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress annually. Prohibits any bill to increase revenue from becoming law unless approved by a majority of each chamber by roll-call vote. Authorizes waivers of these provisions for any fiscal year and the first fiscal year thereafter if: (1) a declaration of war is in effect, or (2) the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that real economic growth has been or will be less than 1% for two consecutive quarters during the period of those two fiscal years. Authorizes waivers for any fiscal year under other specified circumstances involving military conflict. Excludes: (1) from estimated receipts, specified funds derived from net borrowing; (2) from estimated outlays, funds for repayment of debt principal and for capital investments; and (3) from receipts or outlays, receipts (including attributable interest) and outlays of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund.

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

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Grants Congress and the states the power to regulate the raising and spending of money and in kind equivalents with respect to federal and state elections, respectively.

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States prohibiting the United States government from increasing its debt except for a specific purpose by law adopted by three-fourths of the membership of each House of Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 4 November 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits the federal government from increasing its debt except for a specific purpose by law adopted by three-fourths of the membership of each chamber.

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to contributions and expenditures intended to affect elections.

United States · United States Congress · 1 November 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Grants Congress and the states the power to regulate the raising and spending of money and in kind equivalents with respect to federal and state elections, respectively.

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

United States · United States Congress · 14 October 2011

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.

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

United States · United States Congress · 14 October 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits total outlays (except those for payment of debt) for a year from exceeding the average annual revenue (except that derived from borrowing) collected in the three prior years, adjusted in proportion to changes in population and inflation. Requires a two-thirds roll call vote of each chamber to declare an emergency and provide by law for specific outlays in excess of such limit. Requires the declaration to specify reasons for the emergency designation and to limit the period in which outlays may exceed such limit to no longer than one year. Requires all revenue in excess of outlays: (1) to reduce the federal debt; and (2) upon the retirement of such debt, to be held by the Treasury to be used for the specific outlays in excess of such limit. Prescribes a formula for reducing outlays over ten years.

Recognizing the importance of the property rights granted by the United States Constitution; affirming the duty of each Member of this body to support and defend such rights; and asserting that no public body should unlawfully obtain the property of any citizen of the United States for the benefit of another private citizen or corporation.

United States · United States Congress · 14 October 2011

Declares that all U.S. citizens should remain secure in the possession of private property and that no court, legislature, or executive shall, by predatory law or tyrannical force, obtain the property of any U.S. citizen for the benefit of another private citizen or corporation.

Condemning the persecution of political opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko as well as other political prisoners, among them former internal affairs minister Yuri Lutsenko.

United States · United States Congress · 13 October 2011

Condemns the verdict against Yulia Tymoshenko and requests that she be released from custody while the verdict is appealed. Demands that the government of Ukraine release all political prisoners and provide medical care to those that have been imprisoned. Demands that Ukraine adhere to the principles of democracy and rule of law by respecting human rights, freedom of the press, and the protection of free speech and the right to peaceful assembly.

Recognizing the security challenges of convening government officials in one specific place and directing the House of Representatives to take appropriate steps so that the House of Representatives can meet in a virtual setting.

United States · United States Congress · 13 October 2011

Directs the House Committee on House Administration to: (1) identify the best practices for holding debates, hearings, meetings, and votes of the House in a virtual setting (such as via electronic voting, video conferencing, and secure telephone and internet connections); (2) establish procedures and rules for Congressmen to consider legislation in a virtual setting; and (3) hold such activities in accordance with the requirement to assemble under the 20th Amendment of the Constitution.

U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT: PRIORITIES AND THE RULE OF LAW

United States · United States House of Representatives · 12 October 2011

COMMERCIAL RULE OF LAW

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 2011

To direct the Secretary of State to submit a report on whether any support organization that participated in the planning or execution of the recent Gaza flotilla attempt should be designated as a foreign terrorist organization and any actions taken by the Department of State to express gratitude to the government of Greece for preventing the Gaza flotilla from setting sail in contravention of Israel's legal blockade of Gaza, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 6 October 2011

Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should take diplomatic steps to express gratitude to Greece for upholding the rule of law in preventing hostile forces from violating a legal naval blockade of Gaza by Israel and thereby advancing the security of its ally Israel. Directs the Secretary of State to report to Congress on whether any support organization that participated in the planning or execution of the recent Gaza flotilla attempt should be designated as a foreign terrorist organization.

CONSIDERING THE ROLE OF JUDGES UNDER THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES

United States · United States Senate · 5 October 2011

A BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION

United States · United States House of Representatives · 4 October 2011

Zimbabwe Sanctions Repeal Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 2011

Zimbabwe Sanctions Repeal Act of 2011 - 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.)

Duwamish Tribal Recognition Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 September 2011

Duwamish Tribal Recognition Act - Extends federal recognition to the Duwamish Tribe. Makes the Tribe and its members eligible for all services and benefits provided by the federal government to federally recognized tribes without regard to the existence of a reservation for the Tribe or the location of the residence of any member on or near any Indian reservation. Defines the Tribe's service area for purposes of the delivery of federal services. Requires the Tribe to submit to the Secretary of the Interior a membership roll of all individuals enrolled in the Tribe. Requires the Tribe to conduct an election by secret ballot to adopt a constitution and bylaws for the Tribe. Requires the Tribe to elect a governing body in accordance with the procedures set forth in its constitution and bylaws. Requires the Secretary to take Tribe service area or aboriginal lands into trust for the benefit of the Tribe if the Tribe transfers all right, title, and interest in and to the land to the Secretary within ten years. Requires the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to identify those lands which shall be considered the aboriginal homelands of the Tribe.

Observing the 20th anniversary of Ukrainian independence and expressing strong and continued support to the Ukrainian people for their efforts toward ensuring democratic principles, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 2011

Observes the 20th anniversary of Ukrainian independence, reflecting on the democratic reforms that have been accomplished and efforts that still must be made. Urges the government of Ukraine to refrain from actions that undermine democratic principles, human rights, and the rule of law. Supports the Ukrainian people's efforts to work toward ensuring democratic principles, a free-market economy, and respect for human rights which enable Ukraine to achieve its potential as an important U.S. strategic partner.

Tenth Amendment Enforcement Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2011

Tenth Amendment Enforcement Act - Reaffirms each state's autonomous sovereign police powers under the Tenth Amendment of the Constitution to preserve and protect the safety, security, and property of citizens of the state without interference or oversight from federal authorities. Authorizes the chief executive or a member of the legislature of a state to file a civil action to: (1) obtain declaratory or injunctive relief to remedy any action taken by a federal authority that attempts to interfere with the state's sovereign authority, or (2) obtain compliance with Section Four of Article IV of the Constitution (guaranteeing states a republican form of government and protecting states against invasion and domestic violence).

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to clarify the authority of Congress and the States to regulate the expenditure of funds for political activity by corporations.

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2011

Constitutional Amendment - States that nothing in the U.S. Constitution shall prohibit Congress and the states from imposing content-neutral regulations and restrictions on the expenditure of funds for political activity by any corporation, limited liability company, or other corporate entity, including but not limited to contributions in support of, or in opposition to, a candidate for public office.

National Women's History Museum and Federal Facilities Consolidation and Efficiency Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2011

National Women's History Museum and Federal Facilities Consolidation and Efficiency Act of 2011 - National Women's History Museum Act of 2011 - Directs the Administrator of General Services (GSA) to convey, by quitclaim deed, to the National Women's History Museum, Inc. (the Museum) specified property (commonly known as the "Cotton Annex" site) in the District of Columbia, on terms which the Administrator deems appropriate. Requires the purchase price for the property to be: (1) its market value based on its highest and best use, as determined by an independent appraisal performed under the assumption that the property does not contain any hazardous substances, waste, or pollutants requiring a response under applicable environmental laws; and (2) paid into the Federal Buildings Fund. Requires the property to be dedicated for use as a site for a national women's history museum for a 99-year period. Prohibits using federal funds to purchase the property or design and construct any facility on such property. Federal Trade Commission and National Gallery of Art Facility Consolidation, Savings, and Efficiency Act of 2011 - Requires the Administrator, not later than December 31, 2012, to transfer administrative jurisdiction, custody, and control of the building located at 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, in Washington, DC, to the National Gallery of Art and to name such building as the North Building of the National Gallery of Art. Requires the National Gallery of Art to pay the costs of remodeling, renovating, or reconstructing such building. Prohibits the use of appropriated funds for the initial costs of such activities. Requires the Administrator to relocate the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) employees and operations housed in such building to specified space in the leased building known as the Constitution Center located at 400 7th Street, SW, in Washington, DC. Directs the Administrator and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to execute an occupancy agreement to assign or sublease such space. Eliminates existing FY2012-FY2013 appropriations authorizations for the GSA's: (1) energy and water retrofit and conservation measures program, and (2) wellness and fitness program.

Repeal of the Authorization for Use of Military Force

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2011

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 regarding the effect of treaties, Executive orders, and agreements with other nations or groups of nations.

United States · United States Congress · 5 August 2011

Constitutional Amendment - States that no treaty, executive order, or any agreement with any nation or group of nations or any of the provisions of such agreements shall be 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 · 5 August 2011

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.

Health Care Provider and Hospital Conscience Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2011

Health Care Provider and Hospital Conscience Protection Act - Prohibits the federal government and any state or local government that receives federal financial assistance from discriminating or retaliating against any individual or health care entity because of the refusal by the individual or entity to recommend, refer for, provide coverage for, pay for, provide, perform, assist, or participate in any abortion. Includes within such prohibited discrimination: (1) denial, deprivation, or disqualification in licensing; (2) withholding accreditations, authorizations, loans, grants, aids, assistance, benefits, or privileges; and (3) withholding authorization to expand, improve, finance, or create facilities or programs. Creates a cause of action for any violation of this Act. Gives federal courts jurisdiction to order any form of legal or equitable relief, including injunctive relief or an order preventing the disbursement of all or a portion of federal financial assistance to a state government until the prohibited conduct has ceased. Authorizes the Attorney General to file a civil action seeking injunctive or declaratory relief to enforce compliance with this Act. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to designate the Director of the Office for Civil Rights of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to receive and investigate complaints alleging a violation of this Act. Requires this Act to be construed in favor of broad conscience protection for individuals and health care entities to the maximum extent permitted by the terms of this Act and the Constitution.

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

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2011

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 roll call vote of each chamber, authorizes a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Excludes receipts (including attributable interest) and outlays of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund, or either of their successor funds, from consideration as receipts or outlays for purposes of this Amendment. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to Congress annually. Authorizes waivers of these provisions when a declaration of war is in effect or under other specified circumstances involving military conflict. Prohibits Congress from passing any bill that provides a net reduction in individual income taxes for those with incomes over $1 million (as may be adjusted by Congress to account for inflation) if, after enactment, total outlays would exceed total receipts in any fiscal year affected by the bill. Prohibits a federal or state court from ordering any reduction in the Social Security benefits authorized by law, including any benefits provided from the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund, or either of their successor funds.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2011

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2012 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, 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, 2012, 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. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account for FY2012, as well as for full-time personnel for elements within such Account. Authorizes appropriations for FY2012 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. 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. 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. Requires the DNI to: (1) semiannually update intelligence information relating to terrorist recidivism of former detainees of Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; and (2) submit to the intelligence committees information concerning the transfer or potential transfer of individuals detained there. Sets forth matters relating to elements of the intelligence community, including: (1) foreign language proficiency requirements for certain CIA officers, (2) required Senate confirmation of the appointment of the NSA Director, (3) the transfer of certain funds for use by DOD intelligence elements, and (4) the extension of provisions of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 which establish procedures for the collection of foreign intelligence information from targeted individuals located outside the United States.

Expressing the sense of Congress that the President should ensure that the United States does not default on its debt by making every effort to negotiate passage of an increase in the statutory debt ceiling or, all such efforts failing, should use his authority under section 3 of Article II of the United States Constitution to uphold section 4 of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution to pay all debts of the United States as they come due.

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2011

Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should: (1) work with Congress to secure passage of an increase in the statutory debt ceiling; (2) make clear that under no circumstances will the United States fail to pay its debts on time and in full; (3) make clear that, all other efforts failing, he will use his authority under the 14th Amendment to the Constitution to ensure payment of all federal debts on time and in full; and (4) take any and all actions necessary to preserve the full faith and credit of the United States.

Expressing the sense of Congress that the President should ensure that the United States does not default on its debt by making every effort to negotiate passage of an increase in the statutory debt ceiling or, all such efforts failing, should use his authority under section 4 of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution to pay all debts of the United States as they come due.

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2011

Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should: (1) work with Congress to secure passage of an increase in the statutory debt ceiling; (2) make clear that under no circumstances will the United States fail to pay its debts on time and in full; (3) make clear that, all other efforts failing, he will use his authority under the 14th Amendment to the Constitution to ensure payment of all federal debts on time and in full; and (4) take any and all actions necessary to preserve the full faith and credit of the United States.

Asia-South Pacific Trade Preferences Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 July 2011

Asia-South Pacific Trade Preferences Act - Authorizes the President to designate an Asia or South Pacific country as a beneficiary Asia or South Pacific country eligible for preferential treatment under this Act if that country meets: (1) certain requirements under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, including establishing a market-based economy and the rule of law, the protection of human rights, and the elimination of trade barriers to the United States; and (2) certain eligibility criteria for designation as a least-developed beneficiary developing country under the Trade Act of 1974. Lists the following countries eligible for designation as a "Asia or South Pacific country": (1) Afghanistan, (2) Bangladesh, (3) Bhutan, (4) Cambodia, (5) Kiribati, (6) Lao People's Democratic Republic, (7) Maldives, (8) Nepal, (9) Samoa, (10) Solomon Islands, (11) Timor-Leste (East Timor), (12) Tuvalu, and (13) Vanuatu. Authorizes the President to provide duty-free treatment of certain import-sensitive articles (watches, electronic articles, steel articles, footwear and certain other apparel, and glass products) meeting rules of origin requirements if: (1) the article is the growth, product, or manufacture of a beneficiary Asia or South Pacific country; and (2) the President determines, after receiving advice of the International Trade Commission (ITC), that the article is not import-sensitive in the context of imports from beneficiary Asia or South Pacific countries. Prescribes the rules of origin for the articles for the duty-free treatment. Grants duty-free treatment of certain textile and apparel articles imported directly into the customs territory of the United States from a beneficiary Asia or South Pacific country. Establishes limitations on such preferential treatment. Prescribes requirements for handloomed, handmade, folklore articles or ethnic printed fabrics. Prescribes a special rule to extend such preferential treatment through December 31, 2019, for textile and apparel articles that are wholly assembled in one or more beneficiary or former beneficiary Asia or South Pacific countries, or both, regardless of the country or origin of the yarn or fabric used to make such articles. Terminates the extension of preferential treatment to a beneficiary Asia or South Pacific country after December 31, 2022.

A concurrent resolution supporting the goals and ideals of the designation of the year of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent.

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2011

Supports the designation of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent. Encourages the recognition of the collective history and achievements made by people of African descent. Reaffirms the importance of the full participation of people of African descent around the world in all aspects of political, economic, social, and cultural life. Recognizes bilateral and multilateral efforts to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, including efforts that target the eradication of poverty, hunger and inequality. Reaffirms the commitment of Congress to address racism, discrimination, and intolerance in the United States and around the globe.

Proposing a spending limit amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 21 July 2011

Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits total outlays (except those for payment of debt) for a year from exceeding the average annual revenue (except that derived from borrowing) collected in the three prior years, adjusted in proportion to changes in population and inflation. Requires a three-fourths roll call vote of each chamber to declare an emergency and provide by law for specific outlays in excess of such limit. Requires the declaration to specify reasons for the emergency designation and to limit the period in which outlays may exceed such limit to no longer than one year. Requires all revenue in excess of outlays: (1) to reduce the federal debt; and (2) upon the retirement of such debt, to be held by the Treasury to be used for the specific outlays in excess of such limit. Prescribes a formula for reducing outlays over ten years.

Muscogee Nation of Florida Federal Recognition Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 July 2011

Muscogee Nation of Florida Federal Recognition Act - Extends federal recognition to the Muscogee Nation of Florida (the Nation). Makes the Nation and its members eligible for all services and benefits provided by the federal government to federally recognized Indian tribes. Considers the service area of the Nation, for the delivery of federal services to members, to be: (1) the community of Bruce in Walton County, Florida; and (2) an area in Florida in which members reside that is bordered on the west by the Escambia River and on the east by the St. Marks River. Requires that the constitution and bylaws of the Nation be the constitution and bylaws of the Nation's Tribal Council dated January 21, 2001 (including amendments). Instructs the Secretary of the Interior, upon receipt of a written request of the Tribal Council, to hold a referendum for members to adopt a new constitution and bylaws. Specifies the role and duties of the Tribal Council. Requires that the membership roll of the Nation be determined in accordance with the membership criteria established by the ordinance of the Nation numbered 04-01-100 and dated February 7, 2004. Authorizes the Secretary to take land into trust on behalf of the Nation.