HJRES 136
Amending title 36, United States Code, to direct the President to issue an annual proclamation establishing Democracy Day.
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Bill overview
This joint resolution proposes to establish an annual ‘Democracy Day’ by directing the President to issue a proclamation. The proclamation would encourage states and local governments, as well as the public, to recognize this day with events and activities. The bill specifically references the January 6th attack on the Capitol as a reminder of the fragility of democracy and the importance of safeguarding democratic traditions.
Key provisions
- Directs the President to issue an annual proclamation.
- Designates a day as ‘Democracy Day’.
- Calls on state and local governments to observe Democracy Day.
- Urges civil and educational authorities to promote Democracy Day.
Who is affected
- The President
- State and local governments
- The general public
Notable changes
- Establishes a national day to recognize and celebrate democracy.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Eleanor Holmes [D-DC-At Large] Norton
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119th CONGRESS — 2d Session
H. J. RES. 136
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
JOINT RESOLUTION
Amending title 36, United States Code, to direct the President to issue an annual proclamation establishing Democracy Day.
Whereas, on January 6, 2021, insurrectionists carried out a violent attack against the United States Capitol in a failed attempt to disrupt and harm lawmakers certifying the outcome of the 2020 Presidential election;
Whereas the assault on the United States Capitol resulted in multiple deaths and physical harm to over 140 members of law enforcement;
Whereas the tremendous bravery displayed by law enforcement officers helped ensure the successful and democratic transition of presidential power;
Whereas the transition of presidential power has remained an unbroken tradition for more than 220 years and is a hallmark of American democracy;
Whereas democracy is fragile and requires eternal vigilance to maintain it; and
Whereas January 6 would be an appropriate day to designate as Democracy Day: Now, therefore, be it
That chapter 1 of title 36, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section (and conforming the table of contents for such chapter accordingly):
The President shall issue each year a proclamation—
designating a day as Democracy Day;
calling on State and local governments and the people of the United States to observe Democracy Day with appropriate programs and activities; and
urging civil and educational authorities of States, counties, cities, and towns to observe Democracy Day through appropriate programs and activities.