Expressing the sense of the Senate that Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert Fitzgerald Kennedy Jr. does not have the confidence of the Senate or of the American people to faithfully carry out the duties of his office and should be removed from his position.
Summary
Senate Resolution 374 expresses the sense of the Senate that Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert Fitzgerald Kennedy Jr. lacks the confidence of the Senate and the American people and should be removed from office. The resolution cites a pattern of conduct incompatible with his duties, including undermining vaccine access and trust, failing to meet obligations under the Public Health Service Act, and unlawfully terminating NIH research grants.
It also alleges mass firings within the Department of Health and Human Services, the elimination of key offices, and the promotion of misinformation regarding vaccines and autism. The resolution further claims that the Secretary's actions have led to lawsuits from states and health organizations, jeopardizing public health and undermining scientific integrity.
Ultimately, the resolution asserts that Secretary Kennedy Jr. has been negligent in his duty to enhance the health and well-being of Americans and has used his office for personal gain, thus warranting his removal.
Expected Effects
If passed, this resolution would signal a strong disapproval from the Senate, potentially leading to increased pressure on the President to remove Secretary Kennedy Jr. While the resolution itself is non-binding, it could trigger further investigations and actions by Congress.
This could also lead to significant changes in the Department of Health and Human Services, including the reversal of policies implemented under Secretary Kennedy Jr. and the restoration of funding to programs that have been cut. The resolution's impact would largely depend on the subsequent actions taken by the executive and legislative branches.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially restore public trust in the Department of Health and Human Services and federal health agencies.
- Could lead to the reinstatement of critical public health programs and funding.
- May result in the reversal of policies that undermine vaccine access and trust.
- Could ensure that the Department operates in accordance with established laws and regulations.
- May lead to a renewed focus on evidence-based health policies and scientific integrity.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could disrupt the Department of Health and Human Services and create instability.
- May face strong opposition from those who support Secretary Kennedy Jr.'s policies.
- Could lead to a political battle between the executive and legislative branches.
- May not necessarily result in the removal of Secretary Kennedy Jr., as the resolution is non-binding.
- Could further polarize the public on issues related to health and science.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution raises questions regarding the Secretary's adherence to his constitutional oath and the separation of powers. The allegations of unlawful terminations of NIH research grants and mass firings within the Department could potentially violate the Appropriations Clause (Article I, Section 9) and the Administrative Procedure Act.
The resolution also touches upon the role of the Secretary in promoting the general welfare, as outlined in the Preamble of the Constitution. The claims of undermining public health and scientific integrity could be seen as a failure to fulfill this constitutional obligation.
However, it's important to note that this resolution is primarily an expression of the Senate's opinion and does not have the force of law. The actual constitutionality of the Secretary's actions would need to be determined through legal proceedings.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).