This resolution establishes a bipartisan Senate Human Rights Commission to monitor international human rights, raise awareness, and promote human rights initiatives, continuing the work of the Senate Human Rights Caucus.
Thom Tillis
Senator
NC
This resolution establishes a bipartisan Senate Human Rights Commission to monitor international human rights issues, raise awareness of violations, and promote human rights initiatives. The commission will consist of 10 senators and operate with a budget of $200,000 per fiscal year, ceasing to exist on January 1, 2029.
Senate to Establish Human Rights Commission: Bipartisan Body to Monitor Global Issues Through 2029
The Senate is setting up a new Human Rights Commission, picking up where the Senate Human Rights Caucus left off back in 2014. This isn't about writing new laws—it's about keeping human rights front and center in Senate discussions and making sure these issues stay on everyone's radar.
Shining a Light on Human Rights
This resolution, straight from the Senate, lays out the plan. The Commission's main gig? To be a bipartisan platform for talking about international human rights, keeping an eye on abuses worldwide, and making sure Congress and the public are in the know. They'll do this through briefings, hearings, and roundtables—basically, making sure human rights issues get the attention they deserve (Sec. 1).
How It's Gonna Work
The Commission will be made up of 10 Senators, split evenly between parties, with co-chairs from both sides to keep things balanced (Sec. 1). Think of it like a study group, but for global human rights. They can't pass laws or step on other committees' toes, but they can bring people together to talk solutions. They'll keep detailed records of all their meetings and activities, so everything is transparent and above board.
Keeping It Real
Now, about the money. The Commission gets a budget of up to $200,000 a year for staff and expenses (Sec. 1). And yes, they can expense meals and receptions, but only when they're actually working—no fancy dinners on the taxpayer's dime. These expenses are reimbursements, not income, so no tax write-offs here. Each co-chair gets to pick a staffer, ensuring both sides have a voice in the Commission's work.
The Clock is Ticking
Here's the kicker: the Commission is set to shut down on January 1, 2029 (Sec. 1). That means they've got a limited time to make an impact. This isn't a permanent fixture; it's a focused effort to put human rights in the spotlight for the next few years. For anyone working a regular 9-to-5, or running their own business, this means that for a set period, there's going to be a dedicated group in the Senate focused on these issues, and then it's done. It's a sprint, not a marathon.