Online Freedom of Speech Act
By krempasky Posted in FEC — Comments (4) / Email this page » / Leave a comment »
To follow up on Represenative Hensarling's diary earlier this week - it's important to note that the House Republican Leadership is due a lot of credit for getting this bill to the floor.
Even better than just getting it to the floor, it's being brought under "suspension" (as suggested, I should point out - by California Democrat Zoe Lofgren at the House Admin Cmte hearing).
So start calling your representatives and urge them to vote "YES" on HR 1606.
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Online Freedom of Speech Act 4 Comments (0 topical, 4 editorial, 0 hidden) Post a comment »
Can someone link to the text of this bill so I can read it before I go calling my representative?
Good job, Jeb. It's a start and I'm proud to be in your district.
Now what about repealing "McCain-Feingold" - a true breach of the Bill of Rights. How did THAT ONE ever get past the Supreme Court??
When Leadership brings bills or resolutions under suspension, it means they are "suspending" the normal rules of the House for consideration of legislation. The procedure, although common, is usually reserved for non-controversial items such as re-naming post offices or passing resolutions to honor fallen heroes. (Unfortunately, House Leadership has also brought many a pet spending program under suspension, but we're not supposed to talk about that right now...)
The fact that H.R. 1606 is being considered under suspension is telling. It serves as evidence of the vast right-left coalition that Mike and others have assembled to push this bill. It also underscores that we've come to an exciting but rare moment in the campaign finance debate where taking a small step in protecting free speech is no longer controversial but rather common sense.
But let's not celebrate just yet. Suspension bills require a higher vote to pass because they are viewed as non-controversial, and so H.R. 1606 needs two-thirds of those "present and voting" (or 290 votes if every member is present). Accordingly, it is vital to call or email your Congressman, and let them know the importance of Congressman Hensarling's Online Freedom of Speech Act.