President Biden signs 50 bills into law on Christmas Eve, leaving a lasting legislative legacy as his tenure nears its end.
At a Glance
- Biden signed 50 bills into law on Christmas Eve, including the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act
- The bald eagle was officially designated as the national bird of the United States
- Several federal buildings and post offices were renamed to honor community leaders
- Biden granted clemency to 37 federal inmates facing death sentences
- A bill was passed to prevent corrupt members of Congress from collecting pensions
Biden’s Christmas Eve Legislative Marathon
As President Joe Biden’s time in office draws to a close, he made a significant push to solidify his legislative legacy by signing 50 bills into law on Christmas Eve. This flurry of activity demonstrates the administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and addressing a wide range of issues before leaving office.
Among the notable legislation signed was the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act, which aims to hold youth treatment centers accountable. This bill, supported by Paris Hilton, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, receiving unanimous approval in the Senate and a 367-33 vote in the House.
President Biden signed 50 bills into law on Christmas Eve, as the year and his time in office draw to a close. https://t.co/yAU7MWUOTt
— CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) December 25, 2024
Symbolism and Commemoration
One of the more symbolic pieces of legislation signed by Biden officially designated the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States. While the bald eagle has long been associated with American ideals, this law formalizes its status and recognizes its importance in the nation’s identity.
The President also signed bills to rename various federal buildings and post offices in honor of community leaders. These included renaming post offices in Texas and California after Sergeant Major Billy D. Waugh and the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein, respectively. Additionally, VA clinics and a visitor center were renamed to honor individuals such as Private First Class Desmond T. Doss, Sen. Jim Inhofe, and Sen. Paul Sarbanes.
Criminal Justice and Government Accountability
In a move that aligns with his administration’s stance on criminal justice reform, President Biden granted clemency to 37 federal inmates who were facing death sentences, commuting their sentences to life without parole. This action reflects the ongoing debate surrounding capital punishment in the United States.
Yes, 37 death row murderers. Seriously.
The President also approved legislation aimed at increasing government accountability. A bill was passed to prevent members of Congress convicted of public corruption from collecting pensions, addressing concerns about the misuse of public office for personal gain.
As Biden’s presidency leaves its final year, this legislative push demonstrates his commitment to leaving a lasting impact on American policy – good or bad.
