1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

Section 70303 of the House Judiciary Committee's reconciliation text raises grave concerns about infringing on the vital system of checks and balances. This provision appears aimed at undermining the ability of courts to hold the executive branch accountable for defying judicial orders. By prohibiting federal funds from being used to enforce contempt citations against officials who ignore court rulings unless monetary bonds are posted, an exceedingly rare requirement in cases against the government, it would gravely impair the judiciary's power and appear to preserve judicial recourse only for those who are wealthy. Legal experts warn this language seems deliberately crafted to shield the administration from consequences for disregarding court orders and flouts long-established principles of judicial authority. Maintaining the separation of powers and rule of law is essential for our democracy's integrity. I urge you to uphold these constitutional principles by voting against Section 70303 and preserving the courts' contempt powers as a crucial check on executive overreach.