Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB6714

Introduced
12/11/23  

Caption

To provide remote access to court proceedings for victims of the 1988 Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland.

Impact

If enacted, HB 6714 would amend existing court procedures by mandating that reasonable efforts be made to provide remote video and telephonic access to victims. This would facilitate their ability to engage in court proceedings related to their case. While it underscores the importance of victims’ participation, the bill also grants district courts discretion over how this remote access is implemented, ensuring that courtroom integrity and security are preserved.

Summary

House Bill 6714 aims to provide remote access to court proceedings for victims of the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland. This legislation is designed to ensure that individuals who were harmed or are relatives of those harmed in the bombing can participate in the judicial process remotely, regardless of their current location. The bill recognizes the need for inclusive access to the judiciary for victims of historical events, especially those relating to terrorism and violent crime. Through this provision, the bill seeks to strengthen the victims' rights and their involvement in the legal proceedings against those charged with the bombing.

Contention

As the bill moves through the legislative process, there may be concerns regarding the adequate implementation of these remote access provisions, alongside discussions about potential technological challenges. Some legislators may debate the effectiveness of such measures in truly representing the interests of victims, especially considering the unique nature of cases tied to historical events. The discretion granted to district courts may also raise questions about consistency in how victims are treated across different jurisdictions.

Companion Bills

US SB3250

Related A bill to provide remote access to court proceedings for victims of the 1988 Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland.

Previously Filed As

US SB3250

A bill to provide remote access to court proceedings for victims of the 1988 Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland.

US SB3336

Justice for the Living Victims of Lockerbie Act

US HB7806

Justice for the Living Victims of Lockerbie Act

US SR758

A resolution remembering the 32nd anniversary of the bombing of the Embassy of Israel in Buenos Aires on March 17, 1992, and the 30th anniversary of the bombing of the Argentine-Israeli Mutual Association building in Buenos Aires on July 18, 1994, and recommitting to efforts to uphold justice for the victims of the attacks.

US HB6713

Corporate Crime Database Act of 2023

US HR857

Honoring and remembering the victims of the crash of American Airlines Flight 587 in Rockaway Queens, New York, on November 12, 2001, and extending the sincerest condolences of the citizens of the United States to the families and friends of those individuals.

US HB2749

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide a refundable credit for certain home accessibility improvements.

US SR326

A resolution remembering the 33rd anniversary of the bombing of the Embassy of Israel in Buenos Aries on March 17, 1992, and the 31st anniversary of the bombing of the Argentine-Israeli Mutual Association building in Buenos Aires on July 18, 1994, and recommitting to efforts to uphold justice for victims of the attacks.

US HB7564

To amend the Justice for United States Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Act with respect to certain victims.

US HB6618

ARMAS Act of 2023 Americas Regional Monitoring of Arms Sales Act of 2023

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.