U.S. President Joseph Biden has concluded his term by signing 50 new laws, including declaring the bald eagle the official bird of the United States and implementing measures to prevent members of Congress from receiving pensions if convicted of crimes.
One of the key laws prohibits Congress members from collecting pensions after criminal convictions. Additionally, Biden established the first federal standard to combat violence on university campuses, reinforcing student rights and addressing this pressing issue.
A significant piece of legislation increases accountability for youth care institutions. Supported by celebrity Paris Hilton, this law focuses on improving standards in treatment and care facilities for young people, while protecting them from potential abuse.
Vetoes and Pardons
Earlier this month, Biden vetoed a bill proposing 66 new federal judges due to staffing shortages. He also commuted the sentences of 37 out of 40 federal inmates on death row, converting them to life imprisonment without parole.
One of the more controversial moves included granting a full and unconditional pardon to his son, Hunter Biden, which sparked varied reactions across the U.S.
Trump Takes Office
These decisions come in the final weeks of Biden’s presidency before the newly elected president, Donald Trump, assumes office on January 20, 2025.
