As a result of a 4-4 tie, the Supreme Court of the United States today effectively upheld the decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals in the case of United States v. Texas. The lower court decision held that President Obama's executive amnesty program violated the law. Twenty six states, including Georgia, joined Texas in the lawsuit. Additionally, Congressman Collins supported a resolution allowing the House of Representatives to file an amicus brief before the Supreme Court, outlining the argument that only Congress can write the laws. Congressman Collins made the following statement in response to the Supreme Court tie:
"Today's Supreme Court decision is a victory for the American people and the Constitution. It is a rebuke to the lawless executive and a win for the separation of powers. The decision effectively halts the President's unilateral attempts to rewrite the law to suit his political agenda. Only Congress has the power to legislate, and Congress is tasked with making laws that represent the will of the people. Legislating is our job -- not the President's, and we must continue to stand strong against rewarding those who have broken our laws by coming to our country illegally."
"This decision is a critical step in the right direction, but it is also a reminder of the importance of the next Supreme Court justice. The split decision illustrates that it is imperative that the next Justice recognize the separation of powers and the concept of limited government."