State management: funds; use of state funds for implementation of federal treaties not ratified; prohibit. Creates new act.
Impact
The bill could significantly alter how international treaties are treated at the state level, potentially barring the implementation of numerous agreements that could affect state policies and governance. Should it become law, any agency or political subdivision that enforces recommendations related to an unratified treaty would need to provide evidence that their actions were not influenced by the treaty itself, placing a burden of proof on them. This could lead to numerous legal challenges, as state officials may face lawsuits for perceived violations, creating a potentially litigious environment concerning international agreements.
Summary
Senate Bill 527, known as the 'Unratified Treaties Implementation Prohibition Act', seeks to restrict the use of state resources in the implementation of treaties that have not been ratified by the U.S. government. Specifically, the bill prohibits state funds, personnel, and facilities from being utilized to uphold or execute the provisions of any treaty or international agreement that has not received approval via a two-thirds vote in the Senate. This legislation aims to clarify the boundaries of state obligations regarding international treaties and to assert state sovereignty over global agreements not formally ratified.
Contention
Opponents of SB 527 may argue that the bill undermines the state's ability to engage with important international agreements that could benefit public health, environmental protections, and economic development. Additionally, the language of the bill raises concerns about its possible misuse to block compliance with beneficial international standards. Proponents, however, argue that this bill is essential for maintaining state autonomy and preventing unnecessary obligations based on treaties that have not been ratified, thus emphasizing that legislative oversight should prevail over international dictates.
Relating to state government; to prohibit a state agency or other political subdivision of the state from taking certain actions in response to treaties; and to provide penalties for violations.
Prohibits State pension fund investment in certain companies with ties to Russian Federation and prohibits State contracts if invested in Russian Federation.
Congratulating Gregory D. Watson on having the overall course grade for his 1982 University of Texas American government class elevated from a C to an A after a wait of 35 years.