Amending title 36, United States Code, to direct the President to issue an annual proclamation establishing Democracy Day.
Impact
The resolution's establishment of Democracy Day serves as a reminder of the importance of democracy and the need for vigilance in protecting democratic values. By designating this day, the bill encourages citizens, local governments, and educational authorities to engage in activities and programs that foster awareness and appreciation for democratic governance. This initiative aims to strengthen civic responsibility and involvement among citizens, urging them to reflect on the historical events that shape the democratic process.
Summary
HJR14 is a joint resolution intended to amend Title 36, United States Code, to establish an annual observance known as 'Democracy Day'. This resolution directs the President to issue a proclamation each year designating this day, emphasizing its significance in celebrating and preserving democracy within the United States. It is particularly poignant as it marks the anniversary of the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, a day which starkly highlighted the fragility of democratic institutions.
Contention
While the resolution has received support from various members of Congress who view it as a necessary recognition of democratic values, there are underlying tensions associated with its timing and messaging. Critics may argue that fixing the observance to the January 6 events could risk politicizing what is meant to be a unifying celebration of democracy. The framing of democracy as fragile and needing vigilance might also generate discussions on how best to protect it without infringing on civil liberties or exacerbating polarization within society.
Responding to growing threats to freedom of the press and expression around the world, reaffirming the centrality of a free and independent press to the health of democracy, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance on World Press Freedom Day.
Extending Limits of United States Customs Waters Act of 2023 This bill extends the customs waters territory of the United States. Under current law, customs waters means waters within four leagues of the coast of the United States. This bill revises the definition to include (1) the territorial sea of the United States to the limits permitted by international law in accordance with Presidential Proclamation 5928, dated December 27, 1988, that extended such limits to 12 nautical miles from the baselines of the United States; and (2) the contiguous zone of the United States to the limits permitted by international law in accordance with Presidential Proclamation 7219, dated September 2, 1999, that extended such limits to 24 nautical miles from the baselines of the United States.
Disapproving the rule submitted by the Department of Commerce relating to "Procedures Covering Suspension of Liquidation, Duties and Estimated Duties in Accord With Presidential Proclamation 10414".
A resolution designating 2024 as the Year of Democracy as a time to reflect on the contributions of the system of Government of the United States to a more free and stable world.