The Law and the Intent of Congress

Hugh Hewitt makes a very good point in his most recent post - in reponse to some professors arguing that the federal courts in the Schiavo case were simply following thier reading of the law passed by Congress at the weekend, and that they should not be looking at the discussion (i.e. intent) in Congress over the bill, he asks why in the world not if Justices in the Supreme Court are going to look as far afield foreign courts for advice (e.g. Anthony Kennedy in the recent judgement on capital punishment)? Surely the intent of Congress is at least of as much merit as the rulings of countries such as Zimbabwe?!?