In a flurry of legislative activity ahead of his departure from office, President Joe Biden signed a total of 50 bills on Christmas Eve, marking a significant close to his presidency. These new laws cover a wide range of issues, from child protection to animal welfare, signaling the administration’s continued push for social reforms.
Among the stack of signed bills, here are five of the most impactful and notable pieces of legislation:
1. Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act: A Victory for Vulnerable Teens
One of the standout bills is the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act, championed by activist Paris Hilton. This bipartisan law targets the “troubled teen” industry, which has long been under fire for abuse and lack of regulation. The new legislation aims to overhaul residential programs, including wilderness therapy camps, many of which operate with minimal oversight. Hilton, who shared her own harrowing experience in such programs, has become a prominent voice in calling for stronger protections for vulnerable youth. This bill seeks to ensure that programs are staffed by trained professionals and are held accountable for any misconduct.
2. Bald Eagle Officially Recognized as National Bird
It may seem long overdue, but the Bald Eagle now holds the official title of national bird of the United States. Although the eagle has long been a symbol of American freedom, it was not until recently that lawmakers took the necessary steps to formalize this distinction. Spearheaded by Minnesota lawmakers, the bill recognizes the bald eagle as an indigenous species of North America, with significant protections under both the National Emblem Act and the Endangered Species Act. Once on the brink of extinction, the eagle population has rebounded since 2009, marking a conservation success story.
3. Native American Child Protection Act: Strengthening Resources for Vulnerable Communities
Another key bill signed into law is the Native American Child Protection Act. This legislation aims to enhance resources and tools for investigating and prosecuting cases of domestic violence and child abuse within Native American communities. By expanding on programs initiated in the 1990s, this law establishes a national center to provide culturally appropriate support and training to both tribal nations and urban Native groups. It also bolsters protections for children in these communities, where resources have often been limited.
4. Stop Campus Hazing Act: New Measures to Prevent Hazing on College Campuses
The Stop Campus Hazing Act is a significant step toward tackling hazing in colleges and universities across the U.S. The law requires institutions to track and report hazing incidents, ensuring transparency and accountability. Victims’ families have long advocated for this reform, which applies to all campus organizations, including athletic teams, fraternities, sororities, and student clubs. The law also mandates that schools implement comprehensive hazing prevention programs for both students and staff, aiming to reduce the number of hazing-related injuries and deaths.
5. No CORRUPTION Act: Holding Lawmakers Accountable for Felony Convictions
Perhaps one of the most eye-catching bills is the No CORRUPTION Act, officially titled the No Congressional Obligated Recurring Revenue Used As Pensions to Incarcerated Officials Now Act. This law puts a stop to the practice of paying pensions to lawmakers convicted of felonies involving corruption. Aimed at ensuring that elected officials who break the law face consequences beyond prison time, this bill seeks to restore public trust in the political system and prevent convicted felons from benefiting financially from their misconduct.
Conclusion
As President Biden prepares to hand over the reins to President-elect Donald Trump, these landmark bills represent a final push to address key social issues. From child protection to anti-corruption measures, the legislation signed on Christmas Eve underscores the administration’s focus on creating a safer, more just society for all Americans. With these bills now law, Biden leaves behind a legacy of social progress that will impact future generations.
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