The COVID-19 pandemic prompted varied responses from legislative bodies and executive branch actors at every level of government, which affected almost every aspect of American society.
At the federal level, Congress set policy through legislation on diverse matters ranging from employment and federal housing issues to various economic relief packages. And governors throughout most of the country took unprecedented actions aimed at slowing the spread of the disease, with many continuing to exercise “emergency powers” into 2022—generally without complying with the constitutional and procedural requirements applicable for executive branch action in ordinary times.
Debates about the nature and scope of emergency powers arose almost immediately and continue in the nation’s courtrooms and legislative chambers, and the importance of that debate goes well beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
To that end, Pacific Legal Foundation’s Center for the Separation of Powers put out a call for papers last summer. Leading academics will come together on February 3 to discuss papers on “Responding to Emergency: A Blueprint for Liberty in a Time of Crisis.” Join us for a day-long conference on these timely topics. The day will include a keynote address delivered by Stephen Markman, Michigan Supreme Court Justice (1999-2021), and panel discussions, including:
The day will conclude with a cocktail reception to mix and mingle with our speakers and other attendees. RSVP today!
