1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

The provision in the House budget bill that would prevent federal courts from using funds to enforce contempt orders for failure to comply with injunctions or restraining orders when no security was provided is deeply concerning. This measure would severely undermine the judiciary's authority and ability to uphold the rule of law. Allowing government officials and others to disregard court orders without consequence goes against the principles of checks and balances and separation of powers that are fundamental to our democratic system. Courts must retain the power to enforce their lawful orders through contempt proceedings. Otherwise, the judicial branch would be rendered toothless, unable to provide a meaningful check on the other branches of government or protect individual rights. This provision threatens to create a dangerous imbalance, concentrating power in the executive branch at the expense of judicial independence. For these reasons, I urge you to reject this alarming provision that would emasculate the federal courts. Preserving the authority and integrity of the judiciary is essential to safeguarding our constitutional order and ensuring equal justice under law for all. The courts must maintain the ability to demand compliance with their legitimate rulings through contempt orders when warranted. Upholding the rule of law requires that no person or entity, including the government itself, be above the law or beyond the courts' oversight.