Central ND News

Senator John Hoeven has joined a group of lawmakers, led by Senator Ted Budd, in filing an amicus curiae brief in the Supreme Court case of NRA v. Vullo. The brief seeks to prevent the State of New York from abusing its regulatory power to impose financial blacklists on advocacy organizations, such as the National Rifle Association (NRA), based on their personal beliefs.

The amicus brief specifically challenges the formal guidance issued by Maria Vullo, the Superintendent of the State of New York's Department of Financial Services. Vullo urged banks and insurance companies in the state to sever their ties with the NRA. Furthermore, she promised leniency to insurers that complied with this directive, while imposing hefty fines on long-time NRA insurers and prohibiting them from engaging in future lawful business partnerships with the organization.

Senator Hoeven emphasizes the importance of protecting free speech and political advocacy, stating, "Free speech and political advocacy are at the core of our Constitution, and these actions by New York disregard our fundamental rights. It is imperative that the Supreme Court hold the state accountable and reverse these unlawful acts, protecting both the First and Second Amendment."

Senator Budd, who is leading the effort, criticizes the actions of New York state officials, stating, "Left-wing New York state officials have attempted to weaponize the state government to punish a political group purely because they believe in Second Amendment rights. This blatantly unconstitutional action fundamentally undermines the right of free speech and equal justice under law."

The amicus brief has garnered support from a bipartisan group of senators, including Senators John Barrasso, Mike Braun, Kevin Cramer, Mike Crapo, Ted Cruz, Steve Daines, Joni Ernst, Cindy Hyde-Smith, James Lankford, Cynthia Lummis, Roger Marshall, James E. Risch, Mike Rounds, Rick Scott, Thom Tillis, and John Thune.

The filing of this brief highlights the concern that if New York State is allowed to financially blacklist a large organization like the NRA, it sets a dangerous precedent that could threaten the rights of smaller groups in other states.

This case is seen as crucial in upholding the basic tenets of the Constitution, particularly the First Amendment right to freedom of expression. The amicus brief filed by Senator Hoeven and his colleagues aims to defend these fundamental rights and ensure that the state's actions are held accountable.

The full amicus curiae brief can be accessed [here](insert link).