The Federal Judiciary Emergency Special Sessions Act of 2005

THE FEDERAL JUDICIARY EMERGENCY SPECIAL SESSIONS ACT OF 2005 -- (Senate - September 07, 2005)

Mr. CORNYN Mr. President, I rise today as an original co-sponsor of the Federal Judiciary Emergency Special Sessions Act of 2005. I want to thank Chairman SPECTER, Ranking Member LEAHY and the other cosponsors for working on this legislation in an expedited fashion to respond to the unprecedented challenges facing the judiciary in Louisiana and Mississippi in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

We have all witnessed over the past week the heart wrenching agony of those affected and displaced by Hurricane Katrina. An entire city has been devastated and will face an uphill battle to repair and replace the homes, buildings, and commerce that are so vital to New Orleans. Areas in Mississippi face similar challenges. I join all Americans in keeping those affected by this tragedy in our thoughts and prayers during these difficult times.

In times like these, the generosity of ordinary Americans emerges and shines bright. Once everyday working men and women learned of the plight of their Louisiana neighbors they set their lives on hold and committed themselves to helping those who are less fortunate. I have heard reports of citizens and churches from across the country organizing fundraising drives, collecting basic necessities for evacuees, and even renting U-Haul trucks to deliver those supplies to the needy.

I am especially proud of my friends and fellow citizens from Texas. Texas has opened its arms, as my State is known to do, and has taken in as many evacuees as it can handle. The Astrodome has virtually become a satellite city of New Orleans evacuees. Additionally, Texas residents have opened their homes to take in evacuees to provide some semblance of a normal life during their displacement.

Congress too will have responsibility. Last week the Congress passed an emergency relief bill to provide some immediate assistance to the area. And today, with this bill, the Congress continues to identify discreet, but critical areas, that are affected by the hurricane. And one of the areas that needs to be addressed is how the judiciary, from the prestigious Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals to the Federal district courts, bankruptcy courts and magistrate courts will function during this difficult time.

Our democracy depends on a functioning judiciary. The dedication of the men and women of the judiciary--from the trial courts to the appellate courts--who daily preside over important and difficult issues is essential to our democracy. Current law requires Federal courts to conduct business in a few select locations. This legislation makes sure that a Federal court, unable to hold proceedings in its normal location because of emergency circumstances, may hold court in another area.

It is important that as the rebuilding begins in New Orleans and other affected areas that our judicial system be open to anyone who may need its assistance. This legislation makes sure that the doors to the courthouse remain open even during catastrophic events.

I hope that the Senate and the House pass this legislation immediately and send it to the President as soon as possible.

I yield the floor.

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