ACLJ.com Legislative Alerts

Terrorism Trial Approach is Flawed

ACLJ.com — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Rarely does one decision carry as many national security ramifications as the recent decision by the Department of Justice(DOJ) to give the terrorist mastermind of the 9/11 attacks full due process rights and access to our domestic criminal courts. By choosing to prosecute Khalid Sheikh Mohammed under civilian law rather than in a military commission, the DOJ is committing several blunders hazardous to national and local security.

Momentum at the U.N.

ACLJ.com — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There is good news coming out of the United Nations, where the troubling Defamation of Religions resolution continues to lose support. As you will remember, this is the U.N. resolution proposed by the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) that purports to protect religions from "defamation" - but results in little more the state-sanctioned religious persecution – mainly of Christians in Islamic nations.

Pro-Life Amendment Approved in Health Care Debate

ACLJ.com — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 22:35:00 GMT

It is an incredible victory for life. Thanks to the support of nearly 170,000 Americans who signed on to the ACLJ petition opposing the federal funding of abortion, a critical pro-life Amendment cleared the House - the only bright spot in an otherwise troubling government-run health care program.
[WATCH THE VIDEO UPDATE FROM JAY]

A Vote on the Pro-Life Health Care Amendment

ACLJ.com — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:00:00 GMT

An important victory in the debate for health care in the U.S. House of Representatives. As you know, we've been calling for the House to schedule a vote on the Stupak/Pitts Amendment, which would prohibit federal funding under the bill. Now, after an overnight session, the Democrat-controlled Rules Committee clears the way for a vote on this important Amendment.

Abortion Coverage Still Included in Health Care Legislation

ACLJ.com — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The legislative maneuvering continues on Capitol Hill and the latest amendments and revisions to the Pelosi health care legislation in the House includes numerous and specific citations about abortion provisions and abortion funding. We have closely examined HR 3962 and listed the specifics - including the troubling provisions promoting abortion in this bill.

Abortion Coverage Still Included in Health Care Legislation

ACLJ.com — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Nancy Pelosi’s health care bill requires the public health insurance option to cover abortion. Page 110, states that the public health insurance option “shall provide coverage” for abortions for which public funding is allowed. Follow the link to below to see exactly how the bill allows for public funding of abortions, paid for by you and me.

Are Pastors at Risk With Hate Crime Law?

ACLJ.com — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Congress has once again engaged in the dangerous effort of giving special legal status to individuals based on their “sexual orientation” or “gender identity.” President Obama has signed into law the Department of Defense Authorization Act, which is intended to provide for the needs of our men and women serving in the military. Unfortunately, Congressional leaders chose to use this must-pass legislation as an opportunity to attach and pass the troubling hate crimes language.

Protect Military Chaplains

ACLJ.com — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Efforts continue to protect the constitutional rights of military chaplains and Congressman Walter Jones (R-N.C.), has introduced a bill, H.R. 268, “to ensure that every military chaplain has the prerogative to close a prayer outside of a religious service according to the dictates of the chaplain’s own conscience.”

Health Care Showdown

ACLJ.com — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Senate Finance Committee approved its version of government-run health care along mostly party lines by a vote of 14-9. Sen. Olympia Snowe (ME) is the only Republican on the panel who voted for the Baucus bill. Now, the real work begins on Capitol Hill as the focus turns to both the floor of the Senate and House where final legislative action will occur.

Protecting Our Nation`s Heritage

ACLJ.com — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of the things that is unique to our efforts in Washington, D.C. is our ability to link the Legislative Branch to the events happening in the Judicial Branch. Never has that been more true that right now, as we are representing members of Congress in three related cases involving challenges to the Pledge of Allegiance, war memorials, and the National Motto.

The High Cost of Health Care

ACLJ.com — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There's much debate about the cost of the health care proposals now being considered in Congress. But consider this - it appears in one proposal you can be fined up to $25,000 and face up to a year in jail for failing to maintain health coverage. Under the national health care reform bill being considered in the Senate Finance Committee, failing to maintain health insurance could result in more than just an excise tax.

Health Care Revisions Underway

ACLJ.com — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Senate Finance Committee's mark-up of their national health care reform bill, often called the ''Baucus bill,'' is underway. You can view the mark-up here.

The ACLJ has been working with other pro-life groups on analyzing the health care plans. This memo compares the latest version of the bill proposed by Sen. Baucus in the Senate Finance Committee with the House version that includes the Capps Amendment. Each of these proposals is subject to change, but we have yet to see an acceptable compromise.

UPDATE: Health Care & Cyber
Security Act

ACLJ.com — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Capitol Hill continues to be consumed by the debate over government-run healthcare. The fifth and final committee with jurisdiction on the issue, the Senate Finance Committee, is scheduled to hold its markup of the legislation beginning on Tuesday. There have already been 564 amendments filed for consideration. We expect a lively debate over several key issues, including abortion, end-of-life counseling and the extent to which government will be tasked with making healthcare decisions.

Health Care and Planned Parenthood

ACLJ.com — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Planned Parenthood is at it again. The healthcare bill currently being debated in Congress is alarming for a number of reasons, including the fact that it opens the door for government-mandated coverage of abortions, as well as federally funded abortions. Now, it appears that a section of the bill that creates federally-funded school-based health clinics may be little more that an opportunity for the nation’s largest abortion provider to gain access to our school children.

Reaction to the President`s Speech

ACLJ.com — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After listening to the President again make his case for government-run healthcare, I wanted to give you the latest update on the situation in Congress. Despite the fact that the President repeatedly referenced ''my plan'' in his speech last night, there is no White House proposal. The reality is that the legislation under consideration is being written by five committees in Congress, three in the House and two in the Senate.

No Government-Run Health Care

ACLJ.com — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The focus is once again on health care reform and the fact is that any government-run program - including the 'public option' is of concern and should be rejected. The fact is that a government-run health care program is not acceptable. Whether you call it the 'public option' or something else, government-run health care is not in the best interest of Americans - especially those who want to protect the sanctity of human life.

Will "Fairness Doctrine" Return Under Another Name?

ACLJ.com — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

During his Senate confirmation hearing to become Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Julius Genachowski testified that he did not support a return of the Doctrine and he would fully respect the First Amendment. His recent appointment of Marc Lloyd to the post of Chief Diversity Officer at the FCC, however, undermines that pledge and reignites reason for concern.

Let Americans Exercise Free Speech!

ACLJ.com — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The ACLJ said today that the free speech rights of Americans must not be ignored. In a legal analysis being distributed to members of Congress, the ACLJ reminds lawmakers that this nation has a long history of Americans exercising free speech to comment on important social issues of the day. You can read our analysis here.

Defunding Planned Parenthood

ACLJ.com — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There's important news on the life issue coming out of Washington. We have long called for the defunding of Planned Parenthood. And now there may be consideration of an important amendment that would do just that. Congressman Mike Pence has offered an amendment to the Labor/HHS Appropriations Act that would prohibit any Title X family planning dollars from flowing to Planned Parenthood.

Abortion as a Mandatory Health Benefit?

ACLJ.com — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ACLJ is calling on lawmakers to remove abortion as a mandatory health benefit provided in government and private insurance plans as Congress works on national health care legislation. The ACLJ has provided an analysis of the issue and you can read the memo here.

Health Care & Abortion Services

ACLJ.com — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As Congress drafts sweeping health care legislation, one of the most divisive debates centers on the question of whether or not to mandate health coverage for abortion services. As unbelievable as it sounds, the current proposal in the U.S. House of Representatives would have the effect of mandating that abortion services be a part of every health insurance plan in America.

Funding Abortion with Taxpayer Dollars?

ACLJ.com — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The use of federal dollars for abortion is once again at the center of important debate in Washington - this time the U.S. House of Representatives. Unfortunately, the move is now gaining momentum as the House Financial Services Appropriations Subcommittee has approved language that would overturn the long-standing ban on public funds being used for abortions in D.C.

Congress & Global Concerns

ACLJ.com — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While Congress continues to move forward in allocating taxpayer funds and setting government policy, there's a growing international focus that raises important questions about putting America's interests first. And, there's growing concern about several global issues.

In Focus: The Issue of Life

ACLJ.com — Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On the legislative front, there are several concerns that we're following at the ACLJ. The first is the appointment of Dawn Johnsen, a pro-abortion advocate, to the top legal position at the Department of Justice. Secondly, President Obama's budget proposal reverses a long-standing policy and clears the way for federal tax dollars to be used to fund abortions in the District of Columbia.

Read America`s Spiritual Heritage Resolution

ACLJ.com — Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Members of the Congressional Prayer Caucus have introduced an important resolution called ''America's Spiritual Heritage Resolution.'' Read the Resolution. This resolution ''affirms the rich spiritual and religious history of our Nation's founding and subsequent history and expressing support for designation of the first week in May as 'America's Spiritual Heritage Week' for the appreciation of and education on America's history of religious faith.''

Be Heard Project Demands Retraction from Homeland Security!

ACLJ.com — Fri, 01 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Join the Be Heard Project and speak out against the Department of Homeland Security's warning which labels pro-life supporters as Dangerous Domestic Terrorists. [VISIT BE HEARD NOW] This is a dangerous precedent. Speak out now, and Be Heard!

Jay Sekulow on Fox News with Glenn Beck

ACLJ.com — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Chief Counsel Jay Sekulow talks with Glenn Beck about U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s denial of being informed of the use of waterboarding. Watch the interview. Beck questions how Speaker Pelosi did not know about this technique being used, when reports show that she and other lawmakers were briefed specifically on this. Sekulow says the Speaker’s denial is disingenuous.

Jay Sekulow debates Americans United for Separation of Church and State

ACLJ.com — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ACLJ Chief Counsel Jay Sekulow debates Americans United for Separation of Church and State on Fox News Channel's "Fox & Friends" program. Watch the debate, which centers around two Wisconsin high schools planning to hold their graduation ceremonies at a church. The high schools chose the local church because of spacing issues, but a lawsuit has been filed by the Americans United for Separation of Church and State to prevent this change in venue.

ACLJ Chief Counsel Talks with Fox News about DHS Warning

ACLJ.com — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Chief Counsel Jay Sekulow speaks with Fox News about a new warning issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that characterizes pro-life citizens as potential terrorists. The government has singled out those who stand up for human life, and defined them as ''rightwing extremists'' and ''domestic terrorists.'' This is incorrect as a matter of law and wrong as a matter of policy. Watch the interview here.

Be Heard Project Hears from over 58,000!

ACLJ.com — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 12:25:00 GMT

We thank all 58,000 of you who signed our Conscience Clause Petition! The Be Heard Project is now heading to the White House and we are taking your voice with us.

Spread the word to your family and friends about the Be Heard Project, and check our site often for an updated report. Also, soon we will be launching a new cause where you can Be Heard.

Be Heard Project Hears from Future Nurses of America

ACLJ.com — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Be Heard Project is now showing a new video from the Future Nurses of America. In the video, you will hear from future pro-life healthcare professionals who ask President Obama to keep the Conscience Clause in place and keep them from being forced to participate in abortions. Watch the video now.

Spread the word to your family and friends about the Be Heard Project, and let them know how important it is to protect the Right of Conscience for healthcare providers.

Be Heard Project Defends Conscience Clause

ACLJ.com — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Conscience Clause was implemented by former President George W. Bush to give physicians and nurses the choice to act according to their conscience - to not participate in abortion procedures if it conflicts with their personal convictions. If President Obama makes this damaging move, if he reverses the Conscience Clause, pro-life doctors and nurses will be forced into performing abortion procedures, despite their individual beliefs.

Sign the online ''Petition to Protect Pro-Life Doctors.''

Possible Fairness Doctrine Vote Today

ACLJ.com — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Senate has started debate on the DeMint Amendment, which would add the Broadcaster Freedom Act to the legislation being considered. This amendment would effectively ban the Fairness Doctrine from being re-implemented. Unfortunately, Sen. Durbin has simultaneously offered an amendment that would do exactly what we have feared – require the FCC to promote “diversity” and operate in the “public interest.”

Update on Broadcaster Freedom

ACLJ.com — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There is breaking news of a major victory for broadcaster freedom in the U.S. Senate today. Sen. DeMint's Amendment to prohibit the FCC from reinstating the Fairness Doctrine passed by an overwhelming majority vote of 87-11. This is truly an astonishing stride forward in our efforts to preserve freedom of expression over the airwaves.

Senate Victory for Broadcaster Freedom

ACLJ.com — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Senate scored a major victory for broadcaster freedom. Sen. DeMint's Amendment to prohibit the FCC from reinstating the Fairness Doctrine passed by an overwhelming majority vote of 87-11.

Broadcaster Freedom Act

ACLJ.com — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. Senator Jim DeMint of South Carolina is pushing for a Senate vote this week on the Broadcaster Freedom Act. If passed, this issue would prohibit a reinstatement of the Fairness Doctrine.

The Dangerous Freedom of Choice Act

ACLJ.com — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama has said he intends to sign the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) as one of his first priorities in office. FOCA is a tragic measure that will promote abortion and weaken the protections in place for human life.

[At the ACLJ, we have taken an in-depth look at this situation.] We are urging that the 15 pro-life riders, approved by Congress last year, be retained as new legislation unfolds.

Another Congressional Call for `Fairness Doctrine`

ACLJ.com — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There's a new call on Capitol Hill to bring back the Fairness Doctrine - this time from Sen. Harkin of Iowa. He's the latest lawmaker to urge that this troubling regulatory measure be brought back.

ACLJ.com Legislative Alerts

Terrorism Trial Approach is Flawed

Momentum at the U.N.

Pro-Life Amendment Approved in Health Care Debate

A Vote on the Pro-Life Health Care Amendment

Abortion Coverage Still Included in Health Care Legislation

Abortion Coverage Still Included in Health Care Legislation

Are Pastors at Risk With Hate Crime Law?

Protect Military Chaplains

Health Care Showdown

Protecting Our Nation`s Heritage

The High Cost of Health Care

Health Care Revisions Underway

UPDATE: Health Care & Cyber Security Act

Health Care and Planned Parenthood

Reaction to the President`s Speech

No Government-Run Health Care

Will "Fairness Doctrine" Return Under Another Name?

Let Americans Exercise Free Speech!

Defunding Planned Parenthood

Abortion as a Mandatory Health Benefit?

Health Care & Abortion Services

Funding Abortion with Taxpayer Dollars?

Congress & Global Concerns

In Focus: The Issue of Life

Read America`s Spiritual Heritage Resolution

Be Heard Project Demands Retraction from Homeland Security!

Jay Sekulow on Fox News with Glenn Beck

Jay Sekulow debates Americans United for Separation of Church and State

ACLJ Chief Counsel Talks with Fox News about DHS Warning

Be Heard Project Hears from over 58,000!

Be Heard Project Hears from Future Nurses of America

Be Heard Project Defends Conscience Clause

Possible Fairness Doctrine Vote Today

Update on Broadcaster Freedom

Senate Victory for Broadcaster Freedom

Broadcaster Freedom Act

The Dangerous Freedom of Choice Act

Another Congressional Call for `Fairness Doctrine`

UPDATE: Health Care & Cyber
Security Act