The U. S. Senate is considering legislation that would impose criminal penalties, even jail time, on grassroots causes and citizens who criticize Congress. Section 220 of S. 1, the lobbying reform bill currently before the Senate, would require anyone who communicates to 500 or more members of the public on policy matters, to register and file quarterly reports to Congress. Those failing to file or who file late would be subject to fines and possible imprisonment. "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."