Washington, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after the House of Representatives voted on the Military Commissions Act (H.R. 6166).  The House passed the bill by a vote of 253 to 168. 

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have thoroughly analyzed the Military Commissions Act and reviewed the testimony taken at two HASC hearings.  This legislation fails to ensure the prosecution and conviction of terrorists who have harmed the American people.  That is why I voted against this bill.”

“In the five years since September 11, 2001, we have seen no trials for terrorists, no convictions by military commissions and no justice for Americans who are victims of terrorism.  We can not wait five more years.” 

“The Administration’s proposal will likely not withstand Supreme Court review resulting in the further delay of terrorist trials.”

“To remedy this fatal flaw, Congress should pass legislation that achieves two principles.  First, we need a military commission system that is certain to swiftly prosecute and convict terrorists.  Second, we need a system that, if adopted by another country, would treat our people in the military fairly if they were captured.” 

As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Larsen voted against the President’s proposal when it came before the Committee earlier this month.  Larsen voted to support an alternative bill introduced by ranking member Ike Skelton in Committee.

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