Harry Reid: “Mr. President, I am happy today to rise as a cosponsor of the Schumer amendment. This amendment would ensure that debts…”

“Mr. President, I am happy today to rise as a cosponsor of the Schumer amendment. This amendment would ensure that debts arising from unlawful acts of violence cannot be discharged from bankruptcy. America is a nation of laws. One might not always agree with the law or how it is interpreted, but that does not entitle you to willfully violate the law. The right to express disagreement is to seek change through peaceful means. It is never appropriate to resort to violence or intimidation in violation of the law. Here in the Senate we express policy differences through civil discourse and resolve them through the political process, not through violence. We debate in this body passionately but in a manner of respect and civility in an attempt to persuade others of the merits of our position, and that is the purpose of the debate. Those who resort to violence are violating not only our laws but our American principles and values. They are violating what we call the rule of law on which this country was founded. Unfortunately, some who break the law are using a loophole in the Bankruptcy Code to avoid paying the fines and penalties assessed against them as a result of their illegal activities. This amendment will ensure that individuals who engage in such acts of violence, intimidation, or threats, cannot hide in bankruptcy from the penalties imposed on them from violating the law.”