A New York representative formally introduced a bill Wednesday that would begin the process for a constitutional amendment designed to reverse the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision granting a president immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts in office.
Sponsored by Rep. Joseph Morelle, NY-25, and co-sponsored by 49 Democrats including Reps. Paul Tonko, NY-20, and Tim Kennedy, NY-26, the resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting immunity for the president, and a president from pardoning himself or herself. It was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary on Wednesday.
In Trump v. United States, the Supreme Court ruled on July 1 that a president is immune from prosecution when exercising the powers of the presidency. The 6-3 vote fell along the high court’s ideological lines, with former President Donald Trump’s three appointed conservative justices ruling in favor.
Trump faces four felony counts in a Washington, D.C., case, including conspiracy to defraud the United States, two charges related to obstructing an official proceedings and conspiracy against rights. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The Supreme Court’s order sent the case to lower courts to determine if Trump can still face charges.
A constitutional amendment requires two-thirds vote in the House and Senate, plus ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures.
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