Friday, January 18, 2013

Heinrich Supports Udall's Filibuster Reform

Heinrich & Udall say this is the way
filibusters should be done
New U.S. Sen. Heinrich is backing New Mexico's other senator, Tom Udall's efforts to reform the filibuster.

Heinrich just released this statement:

“The abuse of the filibuster over the last decade has prevented vital legislation like the DREAM Act and the American Jobs Act from even being considered on the Senate floor. This fair and simple proposal clears a path to debate and requires senators who wish to filibuster to actually speak on the floor. I am proud to join Sen. Udall in helping to alleviate dysfunction and increase accountability in the Senate, and look forward to really making a difference in the lives of the people of New Mexico.

“The purpose of the filibuster is to protect the rights of the minority. It should never not be used in the cavalier manner we have seen all too frequently in recent years, and it should never be anonymous. If you are going to filibuster, you should hold the floor and explain your obstructionism to the American people."

The Senate could vote on the measure as early as next week.