Political Quotes

On the recordJune 18, 1998
Reclaiming my time, just the reverse. Almost every bill that we passed through this Chamber we put a severability clause intentionally in because we know that we can never anticipate what a court will do. We are the legislative body. Theirs is the judicial body. They have their responsibility. I do not claim to be the Justice in the Supreme Court, and they may do things that I disagree with. We put a severability clause in so that we can preserve our product in the case a court decides to strike part of it down.
Said by
Ben Cardin
Democratic · Maryland

Editor's note · Context

Discussing the importance of severability clauses in legislation.

Share

More from Ben Cardin

Dec 12, 2024

I know of no further debate on the bill, as amended. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there further debate? If not, the bill having been read the third time, the question is, Shall the bill pass? The bill (S. 920), as amended, was passed.

govinfo.gov
Dec 10, 2024

I come to the floor today to celebrate the 175th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Guatemala and the United States. As we mark this milestone, I want to highlight the strength of the U.S.-Guatemala bilateral relationship today…

govinfo.gov
Dec 12, 2024

I come to the floor today to introduce legislation that's essential for securing America's leadership in the defining geopolitical challenge of our time. Days from now, I will conclude my service as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations…

govinfo.gov
Dec 5, 2024

if we are going to carry this as a value on the international stage, that the United States stands up for human rights and certain values and the rule of law, is it not important that we be willing to apply these sanctions to accomplish…

congress.gov

Other voices in this conversation