Justice Against Sponsors Of Terrorism Act Becomes Law

Press Release

Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-08) today joined the House of Representatives in overriding a presidential veto, making the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA) the law of the land. The bill ensures terrorist attack victims and their families can seek justice in a U.S. court of law against the nations that sponsor terrorism.

The House voted (margin) to pass JASTA, contrary to the objections of the President. Earlier today, the Senate voted 97-1 in favor of an override.

"Today, Congress came together in near unanimous fashion to allow 9/11 families pursue justice. For more than 15 years, these families were denied a diplomatic or legal path to justice--that changed today," said Fitzpatrick. "Those harmed by international terrorism may now pursue justice against foreign nations that sponsor terrorism.

Last Friday evening, President Obama vetoed the bill, citing concerns about damaging relations with Saudi Arabia.

Following the veto, Fitzpatrick sent a letter to the Speaker of the House, citing Congress' constitutional authority to override the president when he blocks the supermajority will of the American people.

President Obama's veto came after a previous letter from 9/11 families asking the President to joint Congress and protect all present and future victims of terrorism. It also follows a letter sent to the President from Fitzpatrick, imploring him to sign JASTA into law.

On September 9, 2016, the House of Representative unanimously passed S. 2040, the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act. Similarly, it passed the Senate with unanimous consent.

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