For the last few months, the US Commission on International Religious Freedom has had congressional budget negotiations hanging over their continued operation. The Commission has been scheduled to phase out of existence this year, subject to congressional re-authorization. After 2 months of extension, the Commission now seems to be preparing to dissolve, though I'm not sure exactly what to make of the purpose of the press release sent out yesterday:
The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom regrets to have to bring to your attention the attached resolution, which we understand to reflect our legal obligations to prepare to cease all operations unless reauthorized by December 16, 2011.
It remains our most fervent hope that the Commission will be reauthorized, so that it can continue its vital work in advising the President, the Congress, and the Secretary of State.
The Commission expresses its sincere appreciation to all those who have supported, and remain supportive of, the continuation and reauthorization of the Commission’s mandate and work.
The resolution that follows lays out particulars of the end of operations of the Commission. Will December 16 really mark the end? Is this just a message to Congress and the Commission's supporters? Merely a legal obligation given the impending deadline? Not sure. Stay tuned.
