Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4100, the Foundation of the Federal Bar Association Charter Amendments Act of 2017, provides the Federal Bar Association, FBA, with the organizational flexibility it needs to fully meet its contemporary mission, and I support it. The original 1954 charter created a framework that has effectively served FBA for the last six decades. During these years, the Foundation has strengthened Federal jurisprudence, advanced legal education, and promoted effective legal practice. The organization's initiatives have also directly improved the lives of our people. For example, one of its community outreach programs, the Wills for Veterans Initiative, is a pro bono project where FBA chapters provide will drafting and signing services for veterans in their communities. I know a number of my constituents who participate have very much enjoyed working on this project. Another initiative establishes a mentorship program for law school students to work with experienced attorneys. The current FBA charter must be amended to allow the organization greater flexibility of operation and growth. For example, the existing charter codifies strict membership and governance requirements that constrain member development and nimble governance of the organization. This rigidity presents serious challenges as the organization seeks to expand its critical charitable and educational initiatives. H.R.…”