Overview
Title
An Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program, and for other purposes.
ELI5 AI
H.R. 815 is a plan by the U.S. government to help veterans pay for emergency medical care, and it also sets aside a lot of money to help other countries with things like their military and fighting bad guys. Some people are worried because the plan moves lots of money around without much checking if it's being spent correctly.
Summary AI
H.R. 815 is a bill that proposes amendments to Title 38 of the United States Code, focusing on enhancing veterans' access to reimbursement for emergency treatments provided through the Veterans Community Care Program. The bill includes multiple divisions addressing appropriations for security and defense, countering activities of foreign adversaries, sanctions on organizations and nations linked to terrorism, and measures to bolster U.S. strategy and support for allies, especially concerning recent global conflicts. Additionally, it includes a variety of acts tackling issues like fentanyl trafficking, data security from foreign adversaries, and financial measures targeting Hamas and Iran, reflecting comprehensive legislative efforts to address pressing national and international challenges.
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AnalysisAI
General Summary of the Bill
The bill, primarily aimed at amending Title 38 of the United States Code, seeks to improve the eligibility criteria for veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment through the Veterans Community Care program. However, it also spans multiple other purposes, organized into various divisions. These divisions address a wide range of issues, from international security appropriations involving Israel, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific regions, to domestic concerns such as drug trafficking, data protection, and combating terrorism financing. Importantly, the bill involves substantial financial allocations designated as emergency requirements, facilitating immediate allocation of resources to these targeted areas.
Summary of Significant Issues
One particular concern arises from the substantial transfer authorities granted across different sections of the bill. Specifically, the ability to reallocate significant funds without robust justifications raises questions about the oversight and accountability mechanisms in place. These authorities could potentially lead to misuse if not adequately monitored. The designation of large funding amounts as emergency requirements, bypassing typical budgetary scrutiny and processes, exemplifies this concern.
Furthermore, the bill is characterized by broad language, especially regarding terms like "appropriate congressional committees," which may result in ambiguous implementation and oversight. The lack of detailed criteria for defining emergency requirements and the extensive discretion afforded to government officials add layers of complexity and potential for inconsistencies.
The increase in authorized spending across various legal texts, such as the Foreign Assistance Act, without clear rationales for such significant financial boosts, raises alarms around potential wastefulness. This is further exacerbated by the omnibus nature of the bill, which combines disparate policies into a single legislative package, possibly diluting legislative intent and focus.
Public Impact
For the general public, the bill signifies a considerable financial commitment to both international and domestic issues. While it attempts to address critical areas such as national security, veteran healthcare, and drug trafficking, there exists a risk of misallocation of resources due to broad and loosely defined authorizations.
The impact on specific stakeholders, such as veterans, could be predominantly positive if the improvements in reimbursement eligibility are efficiently implemented. However, the lack of clarity regarding the oversight of spending may lead to inconsistencies in benefits received by veterans across the country.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
Veterans stand to benefit significantly from the intended enhancements to the Community Care program, potentially reducing financial burdens associated with emergency treatments. However, given the bill's complexity and potential ambiguities in fund allocation, the benefits may not uniformly reach all eligible veterans.
International Allies like Israel and Ukraine will likely see positive impacts through the substantial financial and military support allocated to them. This could enhance their security situations, though it might also imply a shift in U.S. domestic focus toward international commitments, raising critical discussions among policymakers.
U.S. Citizens might be concerned about the broad discretion given to government officials in reallocating funds labeled as emergency requirements. The potential for minimizing budgetary oversight of such large allocations could lead to apprehension about government spending priorities.
The bill's portrayal as an omnibus legislative effort further complicates coherence, raising broader societal questions about legislative efficiency and accountability. The combination of varied policies, from fiscal concerns to international strategies, in a single sweeping bill might diminish focused debates and lead to less transparent policy implementation.
Financial Assessment
The proposed legislation, H.R. 815, delves deeply into financial allocations aimed at improving various areas, including veterans' care, international security assistance, and counterterrorism initiatives. The bill includes multiple divisions, each focusing on distinct areas such as defense, foreign assistance, and economic measures.
Financial Allocations Overview
The bill outlines substantial appropriations across several divisions. For example, Division A focuses heavily on defense-related funding, appropriating an additional $2.44 billion to the Department of Defense for operations in the U.S. Central Command region. Similarly, $4 billion is earmarked within Division A for Israel's defense procurements. Division B extends significant financial support, with allocations like $27.93 billion for defense operations related to Ukraine. These sections highlight an emphasis on foreign aid, reflecting the bill's expansive approach to international conflicts and alliances.
Observations and Issues
Transfer Authorities and Oversight Concerns
The bill grants considerable transfer authorities, particularly in Sections 101 and 103, which enable the reallocation of substantial funds without detailed oversight mechanisms. This raises accountability concerns, as these authorities may lead to potential misuse of funds or lack of clear justification for reallocations.Emergency Requirement Designations
Many funds are designated as "emergency requirements," allowing for bypassing normal budgetary controls. This includes large spending amounts across Divisions A, B, C, and H. The broad discretion in these designations, absent of rigorous criteria, could undermine financial discipline and lead to inefficient spending practices.Increased Spending Without Detailed Explanation
The significant increases in authorized spending—such as the adjustments from $100 million to $7.8 billion found in Sections 302 and 402—highlight substantial hikes in financial commitments without explicit rationalization. This could be interpreted as overly generous allocations without adequate scrutiny or accountability.Foreign Financial Assistance
The legislation heavily favors financial support to foreign entities, including Ukraine and Israel, as seen in major appropriations like $4 billion for Israeli defense systems or $7.8 billion related to the Foreign Assistance Act. This extensive foreign financial assistance, with limited justification for the scale, could potentially impact domestic budgetary priorities and merits careful review to ensure alignment with national interests.Changes to Legacy Financial Allocations
Adjusting previous allocations within acts such as the Foreign Assistance Act, notably in Sections 302, 303, and 304, alters established financial commitments without clear justifications. This might suggest a gap in financial accountability where substantial sums are reallocated swiftly without extensive legislative debate or rationale.
In conclusion, while H.R. 815 introduces significant financial commitments aimed at addressing global security and welfare challenges, the bill also presents several fiscal concerns. The extensive financial allocations and the mechanisms governing their disbursement underscore the necessity for robust oversight and accountability to mitigate the risks of inefficiencies and ensure that allocated resources are used effectively and wisely.
Issues
The bill provides significant transfer authorities without detailed justification or oversight mechanisms, raising concerns about accountability and potential misuse of funds, particularly in Sections 101 and 103 across multiple divisions related to defense and international assistance.
The designation of large funding amounts as 'emergency' requirements under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act could enable circumvention of normal budgetary processes and scrutiny, as seen in multiple sections across Divisions A, B, C, and H.
The broad language used in several sections, such as the term 'appropriate congressional committees', could lead to ambiguities in oversight and accountability. This issue is present in Sections 306, 308, 309, and many others related to congressional notifications and certifications.
The increase in authorized spending by large margins, such as in Section 302 and Section 402, without detailed explanation can be perceived as potentially wasteful spending.
The lack of detailed criteria for what constitutes an 'emergency requirement' and broad discretion granted to government officials may lead to potential misuse of funds, as highlighted in Sections 101, 301, 305, and 506.
The bill allows for significant financial assistance and support to foreign entities, particularly in Ukraine, Israel, and Indo-Pacific regions, with limited contextual justification for the scale of financial support, potentially impacting domestic priorities. This concern is mirrored in Sections 101 and 307.
Section 310 regarding Gaza assistance oversight lacks rigorous accountability measures despite the sensitive nature of the funding, raising concerns about potential diversion of aid to terrorist entities.
Several changes to monetary allocations in old legal texts (like Foreign Assistance Act) without clear justifications, such as in Sections 302, 303, and 304, could be seen as a lack of financial accountability.
The bill omnibus format, combining various unrelated policies (e.g., addressing drug trafficking, military aid, data protection), could dilute legislative focus and coherence, potentially causing legislative inefficiency.
Sections
Sections are presented as they are annotated in the original legislative text. Any missing headers, numbers, or non-consecutive order is due to the original text.
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Summary AI
The House has agreed to the Senate's changes to bill H.R. 815, which aims to improve the eligibility rules for veterans to get reimbursed for emergency treatments provided through the Veterans Community Care program, as well as address other related issues.
1. Organization of Act into Divisions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the organization of the Act into multiple divisions, each focusing on a different legislative initiative. These include measures related to international security appropriations, controlling foreign influence, combating terrorism, and addressing various societal issues such as drug trafficking and data protection.
2. References Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Any mention of "this Act" in a specific part of the Act should be understood as referencing only that part, unless stated otherwise.
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Summary AI
The text outlines that certain amounts of money are approved to be used from the U.S. Treasury, provided these funds are not currently allocated for other purposes. These designated funds are meant to be used for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2024, as well as for additional unspecified purposes.
101. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allocates $2.44 billion to the Department of Defense for various military accounts, emphasizing U.S. operations and the replacement of combat resources in the Central Command region. The funds require a 30-day waiting period after a plan is submitted to Congress, and additional notifications are needed for any transfers, which are supplementary to other legal transfer authorities.
Money References
- For an additional amount for the Department of Defense, $2,440,000,000, to remain available until September 30, 2024, for transfer to military personnel accounts, operation and maintenance accounts, procurement accounts, research, development, test and evaluation accounts, and the Defense Working Capital Funds, in addition to amounts otherwise made available for such purpose, only for U.S. operations, force protection, deterrence, and the replacement of combat expenditures in the United States Central Command region:
301. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In fiscal year 2024, up to $250 million from the Consular and Border Security Programs account can be moved to funds for the Department of State to help with emergency evacuations or security situations. This transfer requires consulting with specific congressional committees before proceeding.
Money References
- During fiscal year 2024, up to $250,000,000 of funds deposited in the Consular and Border Security Programs account in any fiscal year that are available for obligation may be transferred to, and merged with, funds appropriated by any Act making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs under the headings “Diplomatic Programs” (including for Worldwide Security Protection) and “Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular Service” for emergency evacuations or to prevent or respond to security situations and related requirements:
302. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In fiscal year 2024, the amount in section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 will be changed from $100 million to $7.8 billion.
Money References
- During fiscal year 2024, section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2318(a)(1)) shall be applied by substituting “$7,800,000,000” for “$100,000,000”.
303. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
During fiscal year 2024, this section changes certain monetary limits in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 by increasing them from $200 million to $400 million in one part and from $75 million to $150 million in another part.
Money References
- During fiscal year 2024, section 506(a)(2)(B) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2318(a)(2)(B)) shall be applied by substituting “$400,000,000” for “$200,000,000” in the matter preceding clause (i), and by substituting “$150,000,000” for “$75,000,000” in clause (i). ---
304. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
During fiscal year 2024, the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 will be adjusted to allow for a $50,000,000 budget, doubling the previous amount of $25,000,000 outlined in section 552(c)(2).
Money References
- During fiscal year 2024, section 552(c)(2) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2348a(c)(2)) shall be applied by substituting “$50,000,000” for “$25,000,000”.
305. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines amendments to a section of the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005. It specifies that defense articles for Israel are to come from current Department of Defense inventories and can be for reserve stocks, changes how these items are valued, and introduces flexibility in timing their transfer during extraordinary circumstances affecting U.S. national security.
306. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
For the fiscal year 2024, a specific rule from the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 does not apply to defense items kept in reserve stockpiles in Israel.
307. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Funds allocated for specific international programs, such as disaster assistance and refugee aid, can be moved and combined with similar funds to maximize their use. This also applies to areas like drug control, peacekeeping, and military financing. Any moves must follow existing rules and, if the funds are not needed, they can be returned to their original source.
308. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 308 prohibits the use of funds, allocated by this division and previous acts for the Department of State and foreign operations, to contribute or give payments to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, regardless of any other laws that might suggest otherwise.
309. Certification Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines that the Secretary of State and USAID must establish and report on safeguards to ensure aid to Gaza isn't misused. They need to certify processes to prevent funds from reaching groups like Hamas, provide regular oversight reports, involve third-party monitoring, and consult with Congress on how the funds are used.
Money References
- — (1) Department of State.—Of the funds appropriated by this title under the heading “Office of Inspector General” for the Department of State, $4,000,000 shall be made available for the oversight and monitoring of assistance made available for Gaza by this title and in prior Acts making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs.
- (2) United States Agency For International Development.—Of the funds appropriated by this title under the heading “Office of Inspector General” for USAID, $3,000,000 shall be made available for the oversight and monitoring of assistance made available for Gaza by this title and in prior Acts making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs.
310. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary of State is required to submit detailed spend and operating plans to the Appropriations Committees before funds can be used, detailing financial information for specific programs under international and diplomatic headings, not later than 15 days after this division is enacted.
401. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Each amount of money provided by this division is an addition to the funds that have already been allocated for the current fiscal year.
402. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that any funds allocated in this part of the bill cannot be used after the current fiscal year ends, unless it is specifically mentioned otherwise in the document.
403. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The extra funds allocated by this part of the bill will follow the same rules and limitations as other funds for the same purpose during the 2024 fiscal year, unless stated otherwise.
404. Read Opens in new tab
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The Secretary of State, along with other relevant federal agencies, must update certain congressional committees on the status of hostages in Gaza within 45 days of the law being passed. The committees include several Senate and House groups focusing on Appropriations, Armed Services, Foreign Relations, and Intelligence.
405. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Funds set aside for foreign assistance and related activities in this section are officially approved by Congress through various U.S. laws, ensuring proper authorization for spending on international aid, State Department operations, broadcasting under U.S. supervision, and intelligence activities.
406. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amounts labeled by Congress as emergency funding can only be used, changed, or canceled if the President agrees and notifies Congress of this decision.
407. Read Opens in new tab
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Any funds marked as an emergency by Congress and the President, and then moved according to the provided transfer rules, will continue to be considered emergency funds according to the 1985 Act.
408. Spending Reduction Account Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section identifies the balance of the Spending Reduction Account, stating that it is currently $0.
Money References
- SEC. 408. Spending Reduction Account. $0. ---
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Summary AI
The section in the text states that the division may be referred to as the "Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024."
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Summary AI
The text outlines that certain amounts of money are approved to be used from the U.S. Treasury, provided these funds are not currently allocated for other purposes. These designated funds are meant to be used for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2024, as well as for additional unspecified purposes.
101. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary of Defense can transfer up to $1 billion between different funds for the Department of Defense if it's necessary for national interests, specifically related to Ukraine, with approval and notification to Congress. Similarly, the Director of National Intelligence can transfer up to $250 million for the National Intelligence Program under the same conditions and with mandatory notification to Congress. Both transfers are subject to existing transfer rules but are not limited by monetary caps.
Money References
- SEC. 101. (a) Upon the determination of the Secretary of Defense that such action is necessary in the national interest, the Secretary may, with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, transfer up to $1,000,000,000 only between the appropriations or funds made available in this title to the Department of Defense to respond to the situation in Ukraine and for related expenses:
- (b) Upon the determination by the Director of National Intelligence that such action is necessary in the national interest, the Director may, with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, transfer up to $250,000,000 only between the appropriations or funds made available in this title for the National Intelligence Program:
102. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary of Defense to work with the Secretary of State to create a report for certain Congressional committees. This report will detail how U.S. defense materials designated for Ukraine are being tracked and used, especially since the Russian invasion in 2022, and it must be submitted within 60 days of the division's enactment. The report should address whether these materials reached their intended targets and if any problems occurred, describing any corrective actions taken, and it will be mostly unclassified but may have a classified attachment.
103. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary of Defense must, in cooperation with the Secretary of State, submit a written report every 30 days to specific congressional committees, detailing the United States' security assistance to Ukraine since Russia's invasion on February 24, 2022. This report, which will continue through fiscal year 2025, should include a list of defense items and services provided, along with the authority and funding used, and must be unclassified, though it can have a classified annex.
301. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In Section 301, the expiration date in a previous law regarding funding for Ukraine has been changed from September 30, 2023, to September 30, 2024. This adjustment allows the funds to be used as an emergency requirement under the existing budget control laws.
401. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
During fiscal year 2024, the amount mentioned in section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 will be increased from $100,000,000 to $7,800,000,000.
Money References
- During fiscal year 2024, section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2318(a)(1)) shall be applied by substituting “$7,800,000,000” for “$100,000,000”.
402. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
During fiscal year 2024, the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 is amended to increase specific funding limits, where $400 million will replace $200 million in one part, and $150 million will replace $75 million in another part.
Money References
- During fiscal year 2024, section 506(a)(2)(B) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2318(a)(2)(B)) shall be applied by substituting “$400,000,000” for “$200,000,000” in the matter preceding clause (i), and by substituting “$150,000,000” for “$75,000,000” in clause (i). ---
403. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In fiscal year 2024, an existing law is being changed so that a specific amount of foreign assistance funds will increase from $25 million to $50 million.
Money References
- During fiscal year 2024, section 552(c)(2) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2348a(c)(2)) shall be applied by substituting “$50,000,000” for “$25,000,000”.
404. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Funds earmarked for helping Ukraine and affected areas may be moved to other U.S. financial and development agencies to better address the situation. If those funds are no longer needed, they can be moved back to their original allocations, but such transfers must follow certain procedures.
405. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 405 states that the rules from Section 1705 of the Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023, are to be applied to the funds allocated for Ukraine under the “Economic Support Fund” in this division.
406. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that no funds provided by this part of the law can be used to support the governments of Russia or Belarus, or any businesses that those governments own or control.
407. Read Opens in new tab
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The section amends the Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act to increase funding and expand eligible beneficiaries to include major non-NATO allies and the Indo-Pacific region for military financing. It requires such funds to be approved by the Secretary of State, who must report to Congress ensuring the loan is in the national interest and that the recipient can repay it, while also following emergency and budget rules.
Money References
- SEC. 407. (a) Section 2606 of the Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2022 (division N of Public Law 117–103) is amended as follows: (1) in subsection (a), by striking “and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies” and inserting “, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies, major non-NATO allies, and the Indo-Pacific region”; by striking “$4,000,000,000” and inserting “$8,000,000,000”; and by striking “, except that such rate may not be less than the prevailing interest rate on marketable Treasury securities of similar maturity”; and (2) in subsection (b), by striking “and NATO allies” and inserting “, NATO allies, major non-NATO allies, and the Indo-Pacific region”; by striking “$4,000,000,000” and inserting “$8,000,000,000”; and by inserting at the end of the second proviso “except for guarantees of loans by the Federal Financing Bank”.
408. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Funds under the “Economic Support Fund” and “Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia” may be given as contributions, but only after discussing this with the Committees on Appropriations.
409. Read Opens in new tab
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The section requires the Secretary of State and the USAID Administrator to provide detailed spending and operating plans to the Appropriations Committees before using certain funds. These plans must include information on available and unspent funds for programs related to economic support, international initiatives, and diplomatic operations.
501. Read Opens in new tab
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Each amount of money set aside or made available by this part of the law is in addition to other amounts of money that have already been set aside for that year's budget.
502. Read Opens in new tab
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No money from this section of the bill can be used after the current fiscal year ends unless specifically stated otherwise in the section.
503. Read Opens in new tab
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In Section 503, the bill states that any extra money given to budget accounts by this division will follow the same rules and conditions that applied to those accounts in the fiscal year 2024, unless stated otherwise.
504. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires that, within 45 days of the division's enactment, the Secretaries of State and Defense submit a comprehensive multi-year strategy to Congress regarding U.S. support for Ukraine against Russian aggression. The strategy must outline specific objectives, necessary resources, potential risks, and updates on international support for Russia, and should be updated quarterly until September 30, 2025, with certain details kept classified if needed.
505. Transfer of Long-Range ATACMS Required Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the President to send long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems to Ukraine to help them in their defense against Russia. However, if the President decides that sending these missiles would harm U.S. national security, they can choose not to send them but must inform certain congressional committees about this decision.
506. In-Person Monitoring Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines requirements for monitoring and oversight of U.S. funds given to Ukraine under various assistance programs. It mandates in-person monitoring by U.S. personnel or vetted third parties and requires a certification ensuring accountability measures are in place to prevent misuse of funds. Additionally, it limits U.S. contributions to a maximum of 50% of the total assistance unless waived by the President for national security reasons, with the obligation to report efforts to encourage other donors to contribute more.
507. Arrangement Required Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the President to make an agreement with Ukraine for repaying the U.S. economic assistance given to respond to the Ukraine situation and outlines that this arrangement cannot include debt cancellation before November 15, 2024. After that date, the President can cancel up to 50% of the debt, and any remaining debt can be canceled after January 1, 2026, but both actions require congressional review.
508. Report Required Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section lays out a process where the President must report to Congress before taking action on Ukraine's debt. It includes a review period where Congress can disapprove the action, details about how a joint resolution of disapproval can be created and processed by both the House and the Senate, and specific deadlines for these procedures.
509. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text explains that funds allocated for foreign assistance, the Department of State, broadcast supervision by the United States Agency for Global Media, and intelligence activities are officially authorized by Congress under specific laws: Public Law 91–672, the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956, the Foreign Relations Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1994 and 1995, and the National Security Act of 1947.
510. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that funds labeled by Congress as needed for an emergency can only be used, changed, or canceled if the President agrees and informs Congress of this decision.
511. Read Opens in new tab
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Any money allocated by this section of the bill and labeled as an emergency need by Congress, following specific budget rules, will keep that emergency label if also recognized by the President and moved to other areas as allowed by this section.
512. Spending Reduction Account Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section titled "Spending Reduction Account" indicates that the account has a balance of $0, meaning no funds are available or allocated for spending reduction in this section.
Money References
- $0. ---
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Summary AI
This section names the act as the "Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024".
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Summary AI
The text outlines that certain amounts of money are approved to be used from the U.S. Treasury, provided these funds are not currently allocated for other purposes. These designated funds are meant to be used for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2024, as well as for additional unspecified purposes.
101. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allocates $542.4 million to the Department of Defense for projects in the Indo-Pacific Command that weren't initially funded for 2024. The funds can't be used until a spending plan is submitted to Congress, and any transfers of these funds must be reported to congressional defense committees. The funds can be merged with other similar funds, and this allocation is considered an emergency requirement.
Money References
- For an additional amount for the Department of Defense, $542,400,000, to remain available until September 30, 2024, for transfer to operation and maintenance accounts, procurement accounts, and research, development, test and evaluation accounts, in addition to amounts otherwise made available for such purpose, only for unfunded priorities of the United States Indo-Pacific Command for fiscal year 2024 (as submitted to Congress pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, United States Code): Provided, That none of the funds provided under this section may be obligated or expended until 30 days after the Secretary of Defense, through the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller), provides the Committees on Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate a detailed execution plan for such funds:
301. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
During fiscal year 2024, the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 will have its funds increased, replacing "$100,000,000" with "$7,800,000,000" under section 506(a)(1).
Money References
- During fiscal year 2024, section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2318(a)(1)) shall be applied by substituting “$7,800,000,000” for “$100,000,000”.
302. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
During the fiscal year 2024, the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 is amended to increase certain funding limits: $400 million replaces the previous $200 million in section 506(a)(2)(B), and $150 million replaces $75 million in clause (i).
Money References
- During fiscal year 2024, section 506(a)(2)(B) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2318(a)(2)(B)) shall be applied by substituting “$400,000,000” for “$200,000,000” in the matter preceding clause (i), and by substituting “$150,000,000” for “$75,000,000” in clause (i). ---
303. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
For fiscal year 2024, the section 552(c)(2) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 will change the amount limit from $25 million to $50 million.
Money References
- During fiscal year 2024, section 552(c)(2) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2348a(c)(2)) shall be applied by substituting “$50,000,000” for “$25,000,000”.
304. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act to increase the loan amount from $4 billion to $8 billion for NATO allies, major non-NATO allies, and the Indo-Pacific region. It also specifies that these funds can only be used if the State Department certifies their necessity for U.S. national security and ensures the recipient country can repay the loan.
Money References
- SEC. 304. (a) Section 2606 of the Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2022 (division N of Public Law 117–103) is amended as follows: (1) in subsection (a), by striking “and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies” and inserting “, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies, major non-NATO allies, and the Indo-Pacific region”; by striking “$4,000,000,000” and inserting “$8,000,000,000”; and by striking “, except that such rate may not be less than the prevailing interest rate on marketable Treasury securities of similar maturity”. (2) in subsection (b), by striking “and NATO allies” and inserting “, NATO allies, major non-NATO allies, and the Indo-Pacific region”; by striking “$4,000,000,000” and inserting “$8,000,000,000”; and by inserting at the end of the second proviso “except for guarantees of loans by the Federal Financing Bank”.
305. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Before using the funds from this division, the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Treasury must submit detailed plans to certain committees within 15 days of the division's enactment. These plans must outline the funding allocated to programs like "Foreign Military Financing" and "International Development Association," while also specifying funding that is available, unobligated, or committed but not yet notified.
401. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Each amount of money provided by this division is an addition to the funds that have already been allocated for the current fiscal year.
402. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that any funds allocated in this part of the bill cannot be used after the current fiscal year ends, unless it is specifically mentioned otherwise in the document.
403. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The extra funds allocated by this part of the bill will follow the same rules and limitations as other funds for the same purpose during the 2024 fiscal year, unless stated otherwise.
404. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Funds allocated for foreign assistance, the Department of State, broadcasting under the U.S. Agency for Global Media, and intelligence activities are officially authorized by Congress according to specified U.S. laws, including Public Law 91–672 and the National Security Act of 1947.
405. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Each monetary amount marked by Congress for emergency expenses under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 can only be used, changed, or canceled if the President officially approves all the amounts and informs Congress.
406. Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Any money allocated by this part of the law, marked as an emergency requirement by Congress and confirmed by the President, will keep its emergency status even if it is moved around using the transfer powers allowed by this part of the law.
407. Spending Reduction Account Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section titled "Spending Reduction Account" in the bill indicates that the account has a current balance of $0.
Money References
- SEC. 407. Spending Reduction Account. $0. ---
Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that this part of the bill can be officially referred to as the “Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024”.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section states that the division can be referred to as the "21st Century Peace through Strength Act."
2. Table of contents Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines the table of contents of a comprehensive legislative document addressing various international and domestic issues. It covers multiple divisions that include imposing sanctions related to fentanyl trafficking, anti-money laundering, the use of Russian assets for Ukraine's reconstruction, protecting data from foreign adversaries, combating terrorism financing, and holding certain nations and organizations accountable for illegal activities.
3001. Short titles Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that this part of the bill can be called the "Fentanyl Eradication and Narcotics Deterrence Off Fentanyl" or the "FEND Off Fentanyl Act".
3002. Sense of Congress Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress believes that the widespread availability of fentanyl is a major cause of overdose deaths and national security threats in the United States, mostly due to criminal organizations from Mexico using chemicals from China. It suggests the government should strengthen coordination across agencies to target these organizations and prioritize fighting fentanyl as a top security concern.
3003. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides definitions for terms used in the bill. It specifies the committees considered as "appropriate congressional committees", explains who is considered a "foreign person", clarifies the meaning of "knowingly" and "trafficking", defines "transnational criminal organization" and lists specific cartels under this term, and lastly, it describes who is a "United States person".
3101. Finding; policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress has declared that international trafficking of fentanyl and similar opioids is a major threat to the nation's security and economy, and it is considered a national emergency. The United States policy will involve using economic sanctions against those involved in such trafficking to protect its national interests.
3102. Use of national emergency authorities; reporting Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allows the President to use specific emergency powers to address issues related to fentanyl trafficking and other illicit drugs. It also requires the President to submit a report to Congress within 180 days, and annually thereafter, detailing actions taken, such as new regulations, sanctions, and enforcement cases, while some sensitive information may be included in a classified section.
3103. Imposition of sanctions with respect to fentanyl trafficking by transnational criminal organizations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The President is required to impose sanctions on individuals from other countries involved in major trafficking of fentanyl and related drugs by blocking their property transactions in the U.S. Additionally, the President must submit a report to Congress within 180 days and annually detailing actions taken against these foreign individuals.
3104. Penalties; waivers; exceptions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines penalties for violating regulations, allows for waivers in the national security interest, and lists exceptions, including intelligence activities, international obligations, law enforcement needs, and humanitarian efforts, where sanctions may not apply.
3105. Treatment of forfeited property of transnational criminal organizations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section describes how property taken from international criminal organizations will be handled. The property will be placed in specific government forfeiture funds, and there will be regular reports about these deposits. It also clarifies that this section does not change how blocked assets related to terrorism are treated.
3111. Ten-year statute of limitations for violations of sanctions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a ten-year time limit for starting legal actions related to violations under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the Trading with the Enemy Act. It specifies that any enforcement action or prosecution for such violations must begin within ten years from the date of the last violation.
3112. Classified report and briefing on staffing of office of foreign assets control Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Director of the Office of Foreign Assets Control must give Congress a detailed, classified report and briefing about how their office is staffed, focusing on the personnel assigned to each sanctions program and specific countries or issues. This needs to be done within 180 days after this law is passed.
3113. Report on drug transportation routes and use of vessels with mislabeled cargo Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary of the Treasury, along with other federal agencies, is required to deliver a classified report and briefing to Congress within 180 days of the enactment of this division. This report will focus on efforts to address drug trafficking routes and methods, with a specific look at how often false cargo labels are used and whether chemicals needed to make drugs are being shipped without proper tracking of who buys them.
3114. Report on actions of People’s Republic of China with respect to persons involved in fentanyl supply chain Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary of the Treasury, alongside other relevant Federal agencies, to deliver a classified report and briefing to specific congressional committees within 180 days about the actions taken by China's government concerning the individuals involved in the fentanyl supply chain, including its shipment and related manufacturing equipment.
3201. Designation of illicit fentanyl transactions of sanctioned persons as of primary money laundering concern Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to identify foreign financial institutions, transaction classes, or account types linked to illegal opioid trafficking as major money laundering concerns. Upon identification, domestic financial institutions must implement special measures or restrictions on fund transfers. Additionally, certain legal provisions apply to manage classified information, impose penalties, and enforce compliance through injunctions.
7213A. Designation of transactions of sanctioned persons as of primary money laundering concern Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allows the Secretary of the Treasury to label certain foreign financial activities as significant money laundering concerns related to opioid trafficking. This empowers them to make U.S. financial institutions follow special rules, block or restrict fund transfers involving these activities, and enforce penalties or seek court injunctions for non-compliance.
3202. Treatment of transnational criminal organizations in suspicious transactions reports of the financial crimes enforcement network Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Director of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network to issue guidance to U.S. financial institutions within 180 days on reporting suspicious transactions involving transnational criminal organizations, especially those related to fentanyl trafficking. It also mandates prioritizing research into these reports to assess connections to fentanyl trafficking or the financing of these organizations.
3203. Report on trade-based money laundering in trade with Mexico, the People’s Republic of China, and Burma Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary of the Treasury must include a report in the national strategy update for combating terrorism financing, focusing on trade-based money laundering linked to Mexico, China, and Burma. This report is to be submitted to Congress following the enactment of a specific division and relates to a national strategy under a previously established law.
3301. Exception relating to importation of goods Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this section, the law states that while transactions involving property and property interests can be blocked, this does not mean sanctions will be imposed on importing goods. It also clarifies that "goods" include all types of articles and materials, except for technical data.
1. Short title; table of contents Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This part of the bill is called the "REPO for Ukrainians Act" and lays out its table of contents, including sections on repurposing Russian assets, ensuring Ukraine receives compensation, and setting up international mechanisms for Ukraine's reconstruction.
2. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section defines terms used in the bill, including "Russian aggressor state" as Russia and potentially Belarus, "Russian sovereign asset" as funds owned by Russian government entities, and the "United States" as including states, territories, and possessions. It also describes "seize or seizure" as taking ownership of Russian assets by the U.S., and lists the countries in the G7.
101. Findings; sense of Congress Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress has identified several actions by the Russian Federation, including the illegal invasion of Ukraine and violations of international law, leading to global condemnation. They note a significant amount of Russian assets have been frozen worldwide, and express that these aggressive actions justify the legal authority to confiscate Russian assets in different countries.
Money References
- (8) Approximately $300,000,000,000 of Russian sovereign assets have been immobilized worldwide.
- Only a small fraction of those assets, 1 to 2 percent, or between $4,000,000,000 and $5,000,000,000, are reportedly subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.
- (9) The vast majority of immobilized Russian sovereign assets, approximately $190,000,000,000, are reportedly subject to the jurisdiction of Belgium.
102. Sense of Congress regarding importance of the Russian Federation providing compensation to Ukraine Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress believes that Russia should pay for rebuilding Ukraine because of its invasion that began in February 2022. It suggests creating an international system to handle this compensation and that the U.S. should work with other countries to possibly seize Russian assets for this purpose.
103. Prohibition on release of blocked Russian sovereign assets Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section prohibits any blocked Russian sovereign assets from being released or used unless certain conditions are met, such as the end of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine and compensation for damages either being made or agreed to. It also requires the President to notify Congress 30 days before any asset release and allows for a joint resolution to block the release if Congress disagrees with the decision.
104. Authority to ensure compensation to Ukraine using seized Russian sovereign assets and Russian aggressor state sovereign assets Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section grants the President the authority to seize Russian sovereign assets in the U.S. and use them to assist Ukraine, including compensation for damages caused by Russia's invasion. It establishes the Ukraine Support Fund for managing these assets, defines permissible uses for the funds, mandates regular reporting, and includes provisions for certification, judicial review, and time limits on this authority.
105. International mechanism to use Russian sovereign assets and Russian aggressor state sovereign assets to provide for the reconstruction of Ukraine Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The President is directed to work with international partners to handle frozen Russian assets for Ukraine's reconstruction, possibly through a "Ukraine Compensation Fund." The process involves ensuring transparent fund management, subject to regular audits, and requires notifying Congress about agreements, while a joint resolution could block fund transfers if necessary.
106. Report on use of transferred Russian sovereign assets for reconstruction Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary of State, along with the Secretary of the Treasury, to submit a report every 90 days, and thereafter every 180 days, to certain congressional committees. This report should detail the amount and origins of Russian assets that have been seized, transferred, or taken, any funds added to the Ukraine Support Fund, and how these funds were used for reconstruction efforts in Ukraine.
107. Assessment by Secretary of State and Administrator of USAID on reconstruction and rebuilding needs of Ukraine Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary of State and the Administrator of USAID to submit a report to Congress within 180 days, detailing Ukraine's needs for reconstruction and humanitarian aid due to the Russian invasion. This report must include estimates of rebuilding and humanitarian needs, an evaluation of funding received, and plans for international cooperation, as well as prioritization of these needs.
108. Extensions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 108 of this bill changes how long the Elie Wiesel Genocide and Atrocities Prevention Act of 2018 is effective. It extends the term from six years to 12 years.
1. Report and imposition of sanctions to harmonize with allied sanctions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the President to submit a report within 90 days detailing foreign individuals who are under European Union or United Kingdom sanctions and who might also qualify for U.S. sanctions. It also allows the President to impose U.S. sanctions on any identified individuals who are not already sanctioned under U.S. laws at the time of the report.
2. Inclusion of information on emerging technological developments in annual China Military Power report Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the annual China Military Power report to include details about new technologies that China is developing militarily or commercially, and how these developments could impact U.S. national security. It also calls for identifying and analyzing Chinese companies involved in these fields, including their connections with U.S. technology, investments, and the Chinese military.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of the bill states that this part of the legislation can be referred to as the "Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act."
2. Prohibition of foreign adversary controlled applications Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines a proposed law that bans businesses from distributing, maintaining, or updating apps controlled by foreign adversaries in the U.S. unless certain conditions are met. It includes penalties for violations, details about data portability for users, and defines key terms like "foreign adversary controlled application" and "qualified divestiture."
Money References
- — (1) CIVIL PENALTIES.— (A) FOREIGN ADVERSARY CONTROLLED APPLICATION VIOLATIONS.—An entity that violates subsection (a) shall be subject to pay a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed the amount that results from multiplying $5,000 by the number of users within the land or maritime borders of the United States determined to have accessed, maintained, or updated a foreign adversary controlled application as a result of such violation.
- (B) DATA AND INFORMATION VIOLATIONS.—An entity that violates subsection (b) shall be subject to pay a civil penalty in an amount not to exceed the amount that results from multiplying $500 by the number of users within the land or maritime borders of the United States affected by such violation.
3. Judicial review Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section specifies that any legal disputes regarding this division must be filed in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, which has exclusive authority over such cases. Challenges to the division itself must be made within 165 days of its enactment, while challenges concerning specific actions or decisions must be filed within 90 days of those actions or decisions.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides the short title for a particular division of a bill, which is called the “Protecting Americans’ Data from Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024”.
2. Prohibition on transfer of personally identifiable sensitive data of United States individuals to foreign adversaries Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section prohibits data brokers from transferring personally identifiable sensitive data of individuals in the United States to foreign adversaries or entities controlled by them. It also outlines enforcement by the Federal Trade Commission, defines key terms like "data broker" and "sensitive data," and states that it will take effect 60 days after enactment.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of the bill states that it can be referred to as the "Stop Harboring Iranian Petroleum Act" or simply as the "SHIP Act".
2. Statement of policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The policy of the United States aims to stop Iran from carrying out activities that create instability and support terrorism. This involves limiting Iran's export of petroleum, preventing funds for human rights abuses, enforcing sanctions on those supporting Iran's energy sector, and countering Iran's support for foreign terrorist groups due to the threat they pose to U.S. national interests.
3. Imposition of sanctions with respect to Iranian petroleum Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section of the bill imposes sanctions on foreign individuals or entities that knowingly engage in specific activities involving Iranian petroleum, such as operating ports or vessels involved in transporting Iranian oil and conducting significant transactions with it. These sanctions can include blocking property, visa ineligibility, and penalties, with exceptions for humanitarian reasons, safety, and situations vital to U.S. interests.
4. Report on Iranian petroleum and petroleum products exports Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill requires the Energy Information Administration to submit an annual report to Congress on Iran's petroleum exports, detailing the volume and revenue of exports, the countries buying these products, and information about the companies, ships, and ports involved. The report must be available to the public, while a classified version may exist, and this requirement will end once a specific presidential certification is made.
5. Strategy to counter role of the People’s Republic of China in evasion of sanctions with respect to Iran Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the requirement for the U.S. Secretary of State to create and share a strategy within 120 days to tackle how China helps Iran evade sanctions on petroleum products. This includes evaluating current sanctions, enhancing enforcement, collaborating with allies, and analyzing China's impact on global energy markets and its potential interference with U.S. efforts to uphold these sanctions.
6. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this section, the terms "appropriate congressional committees" and "covered family member" are defined. The "appropriate congressional committees" include specific committees from both the House of Representatives and the Senate, while a "covered family member" of a foreign person refers to their close relatives like a spouse, adult child, parent, or sibling involved in or benefiting from certain activities.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of this bill specifies its official name as the “Fight and Combat Rampant Iranian Missile Exports Act” or the “Fight CRIME Act.”
2. Findings Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress finds that Iran has violated U.N. rules by transferring certain military drones to countries like Russia and groups like the Houthis without proper approval, and notes that some of these restrictions expired in October 2023, which lifts the legal limitations on Iran's missile-related activities.
3. Statement of policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The policy of the United States emphasizes the urgent extension of missile-related restrictions under a United Nations resolution and aims to limit Iran's missile production abilities. It also seeks to prevent arms transfers involving Iran and ensure those who try to acquire or develop restricted arms are held accountable through sanctions and export controls, even after some restrictions may expire in October 2023.
4. Report Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the requirements for the Secretary of State, alongside other federal agencies, to submit annual reports to Congress over two years. These reports must detail strategies, assessments, and actions concerning missile-related restrictions involving Iran, analyze their impacts, identify involved foreign persons, and describe international and state-level efforts to uphold these restrictions.
5. Sanctions to combat the proliferation of Iranian missiles Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines sanctions targeting any foreign person involved in activities related to Iranian missiles, such as acquiring technology or providing support to Iran. These sanctions include blocking property transactions and revoking visas, although exceptions are made for specific intelligence and international obligations.
6. Report to identify, and designation as foreign terrorist organizations of, Iranian persons that have attacked united states citizens using unmanned combat aerial vehicles Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that the Secretary of State regularly reports on Iranian individuals who attack U.S. citizens with drones, and requires the President to label these individuals as foreign terrorist organizations. The Secretary of State can waive this requirement if it aids U.S. national security, and the rule will expire four years after enactment. The definition of "Iranian person" includes entities under Iran's laws and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
7. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section of the bill provides clear definitions for several key terms, such as "appropriate congressional committees," which refer to specific committees in the House and Senate, "foreign person," which means anyone or entity not from the U.S., and "covered technology," which includes items outlined in the Missile Technology Control Regime Annex. Additionally, it defines what constitutes a "Government of Iran," "United States person," "Iran-aligned entity," and "family member," among others, to ensure clarity and precision in the bill's application.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that the division of the bill can be referred to as the “Mahsa Amini Human rights and Security Accountability Act” or simply the “MAHSA Act.”
2. Imposition of sanctions on Iran’s supreme leader’s office, its appointees, and any affiliated persons Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text describes proposed sanctions by the U.S. Congress against individuals and entities connected to Iran's Supreme Leader, due to human rights violations and terrorism. It mandates the President to determine and, if necessary, impose sanctions on relevant foreign persons or entities, with regular reporting to Congress on these actions.
3. Severability Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
If any part of this section is ruled unconstitutional, the rest of the section will still remain valid and in effect, and the unconstitutional part will not affect other situations or people.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section of the bill provides a short title, naming it the “Hamas and Other Palestinian Terrorist Groups International Financing Prevention Act”.
2. Statement of policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the U.S. policy to prevent groups like Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad from gaining international support or smuggling weapons and materials through goods like medicine, to carry out terrorist activities, especially against Israel.
3. Imposition of sanctions with respect to foreign persons supporting acts of terrorism or engaging in significant transactions with senior members of Hamas, Palestinian Islamic jihad and other Palestinian terrorist organizations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that the President impose sanctions on foreign individuals providing support to terrorist acts or engaging in significant transactions with leaders of certain Palestinian terrorist organizations. These sanctions involve blocking U.S.-involved financial activities of such individuals, though exceptions exist for humanitarian assistance and a waiver upon national security interests.
4. Imposition of measures with respect to foreign states providing support to Hamas, Palestinian Islamic jihad and other Palestinian terrorist organizations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the President to take action against foreign countries supporting groups like Hamas by stopping aid and financial transactions for at least a year. However, the President can waive these actions for national security reasons, and there are exemptions for agreements, intelligence activities, and humanitarian efforts.
5. Reports on activities to disrupt global fundraising, financing, and money laundering activities of Hamas, Palestinian Islamic jihad, al-aqsa martyrs brigade, the lion’s den or any affiliate or successor thereof Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the President to submit regular reports to Congress about the efforts to disrupt the global financing and money laundering activities of groups like Hamas and the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade. These reports must assess how these groups get money, identify countries supporting them, and describe what those countries are doing to stop this financial support, along with the actions the U.S. is taking to address uncooperative countries.
6. Termination Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This division will end either 7 years after it becomes law or 30 days after the President informs Congress that Hamas and certain other groups are no longer labeled as foreign terrorist organizations or subject to specific sanctions, and meet additional criteria outlined in another law.
7. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides definitions for terms used in the division, including "act of terrorism," "admitted," "appropriate congressional committees," "foreign state," "humanitarian aid," "material support," and "United States person," explaining each in relation to other laws or specific bodies.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of this division establishes its short title as the "No Technology for Terror Act."
2. Application of foreign-direct product rules to Iran Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines rules for controlling foreign-made items related to Iran under the Export Administration Regulations, effective 90 days after enactment. These items must follow specific requirements based on their connection to U.S. technology or Iran's destinations, with licenses needed for most, except for certain everyday communications and general-use products. The Secretary of Commerce can waive these rules if it's in the U.S. national interest, and these rules will end seven years after being enacted.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of this division states that it will be called the "Strengthening Tools to Counter the Use of Human Shields Act."
2. Statement of policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The policy of the United States is to completely carry out and uphold sanctions against terrorist groups and other harmful parties that harm innocent people by using them as human shields.
3. Modification and extension of Sanctioning the Use of Civilians as Defenseless Shields Act Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines amendments to the "Sanctioning the Use of Civilians as Defenseless Shields Act," which now includes imposing sanctions against members of Palestine Islamic Jihad who use civilians to protect military targets, extends the Act's expiration date to December 31, 2030, and adds provisions to ensure parts of the Act remain in effect even if some are deemed unconstitutional.
6. Severability Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
If any part of this law is ruled unconstitutional, the rest of the law will still remain in effect and applicable to other situations or people.
4. Report on countering the use of human shields Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The report requires the Secretary of Defense to submit a detailed plan to Congress within 120 days of the division's enactment, outlining how the U.S. and its allies are addressing the use of human shields by terrorist organizations like Hamas and others. It includes lessons learned, plans for implementing these lessons, and the involvement of multinational centers to enhance joint training and exercises related to this threat.
5. Confronting asymmetric and malicious cyber activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The President can impose sanctions on foreign individuals involved in significant cyber activities that threaten the United States. These sanctions can include blocking their property and making them ineligible for U.S. visas. The Secretary of the Treasury, along with the Attorney General and Secretary of State, will determine if a person qualifies for these sanctions, with input possible from certain congressional committees.
6. Sanctions with respect to threats to current or former united states officials Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines that 180 days after the bill becomes law, the President must impose sanctions on any foreign person found to have threatened or used violence against U.S. officials, making them ineligible for a U.S. visa and blocking their property in the U.S. The President can waive these sanctions for national security reasons, and the requirement to impose sanctions will end four years after the law is enacted.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of this bill states that the division can be referred to as the "Illicit Captagon Trafficking Suppression Act of 2023".
2. Findings Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress acknowledges that the production and trafficking of the drug captagon, largely managed by the Syrian Government and supported by groups like Hizballah, is becoming more advanced. This illegal trade threatens both regional and global security by supporting various criminal and militant groups.
3. Statement of policy Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The policy of the United States aims to target and weaken individuals, groups, and networks linked to the Syrian government in order to break down criminal organizations involved in activities like drug trafficking, particularly those connected to President Bashar al-Assad's regime and Hizballah.
4. Imposition of sanctions with respect to illicit captagon trafficking Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The document outlines sanctions against foreign individuals involved in illegal captagon drug activities. These sanctions include blocking property, denying U.S. entry, possible penalties for violations, and exceptions for specific cases like intelligence activities and humanitarian aid.
5. Determinations with respect to the government of Syria, hizballah, and networks affiliated with the government of Syria or hizballah Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The President must decide within 180 days if certain foreign individuals are subject to sanctions under this law. A report must be given to Congress listing these individuals, stating if sanctions will be applied, and explaining any reason for not imposing sanctions. The individuals mentioned include Maher Al Assad, Imad Abu Zureiq, and others affiliated with the Syrian government or Hizballah.
6. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section defines several terms used in the document. It clarifies that "appropriate congressional committees" refer to specific committees in both the House of Representatives and the Senate; "captagon" is any stimulant listed under certain schedules of the Controlled Substances Act; "foreign person" is someone or an entity that is not from the United States; "illicit proliferation" includes illegal activities around drug production and distribution; "knowingly" is explained by a specific reference law; and "United States person" covers citizens, residents, entities organized in the U.S., and people within the U.S.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section gives the short title of the division, which is called the “End Financing for Hamas and State Sponsors of Terrorism Act.”
2. Report on financing for Hamas Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Secretary of the Treasury is required to provide a report to various congressional committees within 180 days of the division's enactment. This report will analyze how Hamas gets its funding, describe U.S. and international efforts to stop illegal financial activities involving Hamas, evaluate U.S. attempts to weaken Hamas’s financial capabilities for armed actions against Israel, and propose a plan to implement a coordinated international strategy.
3. Multilateral Strategy to Disrupt Hamas Financing Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the responsibility of the Secretary of the Treasury to work with allies, through forums like the G7, to create a plan that prevents Hamas from being able to fund attacks against Israel.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of this document establishes the short title of the act, which is called the “Holding Iranian Leaders Accountable Act of 2024.”
2. Findings Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Congress outlines that Iran has significant corruption issues and its military is involved in the economy, particularly the IRGC. There are concerns about Iran's financial sector, as highlighted by the Department of Treasury and the Financial Action Task Force, due to money laundering and other illicit activities. Furthermore, Iran continues to be a major sponsor of terrorism, supporting groups in countries like Bahrain, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen, according to the State Department.
3. Report on financial institutions and assets connected to certain Iranian officials Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill requires the President to report to Congress about financial institutions and funds connected to certain high-ranking Iranian officials and organizations. It mandates updates every two years and includes descriptions of assets, how they were acquired, and any illicit activities involved, while allowing for exemptions and a waiver in certain cases. Additionally, the Treasury must report on blocked Iranian assets and provide details on exemptions to Iran-related sanctions.
Money References
- — (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this division, the Secretary of the Treasury shall submit to the appropriate members of Congress a report and provide to the appropriate congressional committees a briefing— (A) identifying— (i) all assets of the Government of Iran or covered persons valued at more than $5,000,000 and blocked by the United States pursuant to any provision of law; and (ii) for each such asset— (I) the country in which the asset is held; (II) the financial institution in which the asset is held; and (III) the approximate value of the asset; and (B) setting forth a list of all general licenses, specific licenses, action letters, comfort letters, statements of licensing policy, answers to frequently asked questions, or other exemptions issued by the Secretary with respect to sanctions relating to Iran that are in effect as of the date of the report.
4. Restrictions on certain financial institutions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines actions the Secretary must take within 90 days after submitting a report, including requiring U.S. financial institutions to close certain accounts and stop significant financial services to individuals in the report, and seeking similar actions from foreign institutions. The Secretary can suspend these requirements if it's in the national interest, explaining the reasons to Congress.
5. Exceptions for national security; implementation authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines exceptions to certain requirements for activities related to national security, including authorized U.S. intelligence activities, compliance with international agreements related to the United Nations, and transactions involving the sale of essential goods or humanitarian aid to Iran.
6. Sunset Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that the provisions will become inactive on the earlier date of either five years post-enactment or 30 days after the Secretary informs Congress in writing that Iran is not a primary money laundering threat or is cooperating significantly with the U.S. to prevent terrorism or achieve other important strategic goals.
7. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section defines key terms for the bill, such as "appropriate Members of Congress," "financial institution," "foreign financial institution," and "funds." It also clarifies what it means to act "knowingly" and that "Secretary" refers to the Secretary of the Treasury.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of the bill declares that this part of the law will be called the "Iran-China Energy Sanctions Act of 2023."
2. Sanctions on foreign financial institutions with respect to the purchase of petroleum products and unmanned aerial vehicles from Iran Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill amends a part of the National Defense Authorization Act to include new sanctions on financial transactions involving Chinese banks that buy petroleum from Iran and foreign banks that buy drones or drone parts from Iran. The President must also check and report to Congress every year for five years if these kinds of transactions are occurring.
1. Budgetary effects Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section explains that the financial impacts of division D and subsequent divisions of this Act will not be recorded on certain budget tracking documents known as PAYGO scorecards. This means these divisions won't be considered when making economic forecasts or allocations under several budgetary rules and acts.