Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB2658

Introduced
4/17/23  

Caption

Conspiracy to Obstruct the Electoral Count Act

Impact

The implications of HB2658 are significant as it aims to enhance the legal framework governing presidential conduct during elections. By imposing criminal penalties, the bill establishes a clear legal boundary that the President cannot cross, thereby bolstering the rule of law and accountability within the executive branch. This legislative action is particularly relevant in the context of recent electoral controversies, making it a timely response to perceived threats against the electoral process and integrity.

Summary

House Bill 2658, titled the 'Conspiracy to Obstruct the Electoral Count Act', seeks to amend title 18 of the United States Code by introducing criminal penalties for actions taken by the President that interfere with the determination of electoral votes during a presidential election. The bill makes it unlawful for the President to obstruct Congress's certification of electoral votes or to pressure officials, including the Vice President, to manipulate electoral outcomes. The proposed penalties for such actions include fines or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation.

Contention

Notably, the bill has sparked discussions regarding the separation of powers and the limits of presidential authority. Proponents argue that enforcing such penalties is crucial for protecting democratic processes, while critics may raise concerns about overstepping executive authority or encroaching on the President's constitutional powers. As the bill progresses through legislative channels, debates will likely center on its implications for federalism and the balance of power in election administration.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB2657

To clarify the counting of electoral votes in Congress to be a National Special Security Event.

US HB627

VOTE Act Verification Of The Electorate Act

US HR143

Reaffirming the commitment of the House of Representatives to fortify relations with the people and Government of Nigeria and calling for the country to commit to a peaceful, credible, and timely electoral process.

US HJR23

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States providing that the Senate is made more representative by adding twelve Senators to be elected nationwide through ranked choice voting, and providing for twelve Electors at-large for President and Vice President, who shall cast their ballots for the respective winners of the national popular vote.

US HB2811

Water Quality Certification and Energy Project Improvement Act of 2023 TAPP American Resources Act Transparency, Accountability, Permitting, and Production of American Resources Act Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2023

US HB1653

Promoting Accountability and Security in Transitions Act of 2023 PAST Act of 2023

US HB5293

Youth Voting Rights Act

US HB1288

Holding Countries Accountable for Negligent Chemical and Biological Programs Act

US HB2757

Puerto Rico Status Act

US HB457

Combating Global Corruption Act of 2023 This bill requires the Department of State to address corruption in foreign governments. The State Department must annually publish a ranking of foreign countries based on their government's efforts to eliminate corruption. Corruption, for the purposes of the bill, is the unlawful exercise of entrusted public power for private gain, including by bribery, nepotism, fraud, or embezzlement. The bill outlines the minimum standards that the State Department must consider when creating the ranking. These considerations include, for example, whether a country has criminalized corruption, adopted measures to prevent corruption, and complied with the United Nations Convention against Corruption and other relevant international agreements. Tier one countries meet the standards; tier two countries make some efforts to meet the standards; tier three countries make de minimis or no efforts to meet the standards. If a country is ranked in the second or third tier, the State Department must designate an anti-corruption contact at the U.S. diplomatic post in that country to promote good governance and combat corruption. The State Department must report annually to Congress a list of foreign persons (individuals or entities) (1) who have engaged in significant corruption in a tier three country, and (2) upon whom the President has imposed sanctions pursuant to this bill.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.