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Sept. 5, 2006 – Senator Russell applauds Governor Turnbull for signing into law Bill No. 26-0255, which Sen. Russell drafted and sponsored. The Bill prevents entities, corporations or persons of superior bargaining, negotiating, or economic power, from forcing the underprivileged and less fortunate to sign agreements giving up rights that are guaranteed by the Constitution. The Daily News and those who initially oppose the law, misconstrue it as anti-arbitration legislation. The law is not anti-arbitration legislation, but instead, includes all contracts or agreements. Entities, corporations or persons with superior bargaining power, should not be able to force anyone into signing an agreement that gives up important constitutional rights.
Senator Russell states that "as a representative of the people of the territory, including working men and women, I have an obligation to ensure that all agreements and contracts are entered into fairly and with full knowledge of all the consequences." The law provides as follows: "An agreement that waives a right guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States is unenforceable unless the waiver of the right is agreed to knowingly and voluntarily."
In this democratic society, we all have a responsibility to be fair, honest, and forthright in our business, work and social relationships. As a policy maker I am obligated to attempt to balance the playing field and protect all residents entering into agreements. Certain agreements exploit their need for employment or for a particular service.
"This law is good for the territory and corrects judicially made law that created an imbalance," stated Senator Russell.
