Justice Department seeks delay on Cheney papers release

By The Associated Press

10.22.02

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WASHINGTON — The Justice Department yesterday sought to delay a court order requiring the Bush administration to turn over documents from Vice President Dick Cheney's energy task force by Election Day.

Before any disclosure, a federal appeals court should be allowed to sort out serious constitutional issues surrounding a lawsuit against the Cheney task force, the department told U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan in a 10-page court filing.

On Oct. 17, Sullivan ordered the Cheney task force to surrender some of its documents by Nov. 5.

Implementing the court order before the appeals court can decide the issues will cause irreversible harm, the department argued.

Two private groups, the Sierra Club and Judicial Watch, are suing the Cheney task force in an attempt to document influence by lobbyists and corporate executives in formulating the Cheney group's pro-industry energy policy.

Updates

Administration's review of Cheney papers a slow go
At issue is release of documents about energy plan drafted by vice president's task force.  10.30.02

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Wildlife group claims Bush administration's draft rules mirror recommendations made by American Forest and Paper Association, other industry groups.  10.25.02

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Bush administration again refuses to release energy records
Justice Department says requiring vice president's task force to turn over documents would interfere with executive branch's authority to give confidential advice to president.  09.05.02