Rep. Shri Thanedar Co-sponsors the “TERM” Act of 2023 to restore trust and legitimacy in our Judicial System
Washington, DC - September 19, 2023 - Today, Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13), ranking member of subcommittee of transportation and maritime security, House Committee on Homeland Security, is proud to announce his support and his original-cosponsorship for the Supreme Court Tenure Establishment and Retirement Modernization (“TERM”) Act of 2023, introduced by Rep. Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr (GA - 04). This legislation would set 18-year term limits and regularize the nomination process for justices. This groundbreaking legislation aims to modernize our nation’s highest court and make it more representative of the American people.
Congressman Johnson announced this bill in front of the Supreme Court with original cosponsors Reps. Shri Thanedar (MI-13) and Dan Goldman (NY-10) and engaged groups: The Center for Popular Democracy; End Citizens United//Let America Vote; Stand Up America, People for the American Way, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), March For Our Lives and Term Limit the Court.
Having tirelessly worked to uplift Michigan families through policies centered on education, job training, higher wages, and universal healthcare, Congressman Thanedar recognizes the importance of a balanced and impartial judiciary in upholding the principles of democracy and justice for all.
The key Features of the Supreme Court TERM Act of 2023 are
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Establishes 18-year term limits for Supreme Court justices, after which they assume senior status.
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Regularizes the nomination process, with new justices being nominated every two years.
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Preserves life tenure and judicial independence by allowing retired justices to continue holding official duties and compensation.
"This act addresses the ethical violations and corruption present in the Supreme Court,” said Congressman Thanedar. “It ensures the institution of the Supreme Court reflects the will of the people and that it maintains its separation from partisanship in our nation’s capital."
This legislation is crucial because America is unique among modern democracies in allowing justices to serve for life, leading to imbalances in appointments. The TERM Act restores constitutional balance and ensures that the Court is more representative of the nation.
"As someone who understands the barriers that can limit access to opportunity, I see this as an essential step toward making our nation’s highest court more equitable and just," added Congressman Thanedar.
Congressman Thanedar is excited to lend his support to this essential piece of legislation. His life experiences and legislative focus emphasize the need for fairness, equality, and representation across all branches of government. The Congressman invites all Michiganders and Americans to learn more about this vital effort to modernize our judicial system.
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