10/21/2009 5:04 AM
ET
(RTTNews) -
U.S. Congress has approved a measure allowing detainees at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to face trial in U.S. soil--moving a step further toward President Barack Obama's pledge to shutter the notorious facility by January-end.
The Senate Tuesday approved the $42.8 billion legislation funding the Department of Homeland Security in fiscal 2010 by a vote of 79-19, and in the process removing one of the many legal, diplomatic and political hurdles to the closing of the internationally condemned detention center.
The measure, which was passed by the House of Representatives October 15, permits Guantanamo detainees to be brought to the U.S. only to face trial in the country's courts.
The bill--which largely mirrors existing restrictions--does not allow those acquitted to be released into U.S. soil, including overseas territories like Guam or Puerto Rico, even if no other country is willing to accept them. Also, those who have been convicted cannot serve their sentences in U.S. prisons.
The new measure also mandates that the administration furnish Congress a detailed assessment of the security risks involved before a detainee can be brought to the U.S. and also give a 45 days notice prior to any transfer.
The bill, which now awaits the signature of President Barack Obama, also allows the Pentagon to block the release of photographs showing prisoner abuse under U.S. custody that had evoked sharp criticism from international human rights organizations.
Obama vowed on his second day in office to shut down the facility by January 22, where over 220 prisoners still remain under detention. While 80 are waiting release, another 60 are expected to be prosecuted.
Meanwhile, many Republicans in Congress have objected to plans to house terrorism suspects in U.S. prisons, expressing concerns that the move could invite additional terrorist attacks.
by RTT Staff Writer
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