FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, September 28, 2006

Contact: Michael Lowry
(202) 226-7602

 
HOUSE PASSES TERRORIST TRIBUNAL LEGISLATION
Congressman Aderholt Votes to Prosecute Terrorists, Protect American Troops Under New Judicial System
 

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) yesterday voted for H.R. 6166, the Military Commissions Act of 2006.  The legislation creates a new judicial system to prosecute terrorists captured in the ongoing Global War on Terrorism, while also protecting American troops and intelligence agents fighting terrorists.  The bill was approved in the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday by a vote of 253-168.  The Senate is expected to act on a similar measure as early as today.

“This legislation will guarantee that mechanisms are in place to bring terrorists to justice when they attack our citizens or our nation.  The Military Commissions Act establishes the procedures, rules and legal framework that are appropriate for the new battlefield created by the ongoing war on terrorism,” said Congressman Aderholt. 

The Military Commissions Act includes the compromises worked out among the White House, Senate, and House of Representatives last week.  The measure fully conforms with Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, as well as all applicable U.S. laws and international treaty obligations.

“This legislation guarantees that classified and sensitive information used in trial proceedings will not make it into the hands of the terrorists who are intent on destroying America,” continued Congressman Aderholt. “In this measure, we protect our citizens, while also creating a fair and legal process to try unlawful foreign enemy combatants.”

Congressman Aderholt concluded, “Justice delayed is justice denied.  Terrorists who attack our country need to be brought to trial by U.S. courts and this process will do just that.”

###

 

Home | Newsroom