Us Congress House Bill HR748

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/19/25
• Refer: 9/19/25

Caption

Condemning attempts to use Federal regulatory power or litigation to suppress lawful speech, particularly speech critical of a political party or the President of the United States, and warning against the rise of authoritarianism.

Impact

HR748 warns against the manipulation of governmental authority and regulatory bodies to silence dissent and criticism, which can erode civil liberties and democratic structures. It recognizes that tactics employed by previous administrations, particularly the Trump Administration, which included threats against media figures and peaceful dissenters, echo strategies used by authoritarian regimes to control and intimidate media outlets. By reaffirming the commitment to uphold democratic norms and First Amendment rights, the resolution seeks to safeguard American democracy against encroachments on free expression.

Summary

House Resolution 748, introduced in September 2025, is a resolution condemning the use of federal regulatory power and litigation to suppress lawful speech, particularly when that speech is critical of a political party or the President of the United States. The resolution emphasizes the foundational principles of freedom of speech and freedom of the press, enshrined in the First Amendment. It highlights the vital role that independent journalists and media play in holding those in power accountable, regardless of their political affiliation. The resolution expresses concerns over the chilling effect that government pressure can have on public discourse and the independence of the press.

Contention

The resolution stirs debate over the balance of political accountability and free expression. Proponents hail it as a necessary safeguard against governmental overreach that threatens free speech, while detractors may argue that it oversimplifies complex interactions between media and government. The resolution does not propose any legal changes or actionable legislation but serves as a statement of principles that aims to stimulate discussions on the intersection of media, politics, and civil liberties. Such discourse is crucial in a time when tensions between political power and media freedom are more pronounced than ever.