The House passed a bill (HR 1540) that allows the government to round up Americans and treat them as enemy combatants with few rights. This is very very bad.
The Senate's companion, S. 1867, was passed BUT with an amendment that clarifies military detention does not apply US citizens (Sec 1032.b.1) and lawful resident aliens (Sec 1032.b.2).
Section 1031.e also states this, but further adds the exemption applies to anyone captured or arrested on U.S soil.
For reference:
Sec 1031.e:
Quote
Authorities.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to
affect existing law or authorities, relating to the detention of United
States citizens, lawful resident aliens of the United States or any
other persons who are captured or arrested in the United States.
affect existing law or authorities, relating to the detention of United
States citizens, lawful resident aliens of the United States or any
other persons who are captured or arrested in the United States.
Sec 1032.b:
Quote
(
Applicability to United States Citizens and Lawful Resident
Aliens.--
(1) United states citizens.--The requirement to detain a
person in military custody under this section does not extend
to citizens of the United States.
(2) Lawful resident aliens.--The requirement to detain a
person in military custody under this section does not extend
to a lawful resident alien of the United States on the basis of
conduct taking place within the United States, except to the
extent permitted by the Constitution of the United States.
Applicability to United States Citizens and Lawful Resident Aliens.--
(1) United states citizens.--The requirement to detain a
person in military custody under this section does not extend
to citizens of the United States.
(2) Lawful resident aliens.--The requirement to detain a
person in military custody under this section does not extend
to a lawful resident alien of the United States on the basis of
conduct taking place within the United States, except to the
extent permitted by the Constitution of the United States.
