Overview
Title
To authorize the President to impose certain sanctions with respect to Russia and Iran, and for other purposes.
ELI5 AI
The bill lets the President make rules to stop some countries, like Russia and Iran, from doing bad things like selling drugs or misusing money, and it tries to help places like Ukraine get money to rebuild. But it doesn't say exactly how the money will be handled, which could cause some confusion.
Summary AI
The proposed legislation, known as H.R. 8038, aims to empower the U.S. President to impose various sanctions specifically targeting Russia and Iran. The bill outlines comprehensive measures responding to national issues such as fentanyl trafficking and money laundering. It also includes provisions for supporting Ukraine's economic rebuilding by repurposing Russian state assets. Additionally, the legislation addresses concerns over data privacy and seeks to prevent technological collaboration with foreign adversaries.
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AnalysisAI
This proposed legislation, titled the "21st Century Peace through Strength Act," grants the President authority to impose various sanctions related to Russia, Iran, and other entities engaged in activities that threaten U.S. national security interests. The bill addresses a wide range of issues, including fentanyl trafficking, economic support for Ukraine, foreign adversary-controlled applications, and the international financing of terrorism.
General Summary of the Bill
The bill is comprehensive, with multiple divisions targeting different concerns. It allows the President to use sanctions as a tool to combat fentanyl trafficking, manage seized Russian assets for Ukraine's reconstruction, and regulate data privacy to block the transfer of sensitive personal data to foreign adversaries. Moreover, it targets specific applications, like TikTok, and imposes penalties on entities facilitating financial transactions with sanctioned countries such as Iran. Additionally, the bill introduces exceptions and waivers, ensuring that necessary humanitarian and international obligations are not impeded by these sanctions.
Summary of Significant Issues
One major issue is the broad authority granted to the President to impose sanctions, potentially leading to overreach without sufficient oversight mechanisms in place. This concern is significant as the balance of power and checks on the executive are fundamental to governance. Furthermore, the finances required for Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts using Russian assets are not clearly outlined, casting doubts on the feasibility and accountability of these economic plans.
The definitions for “Russian sovereign assets” and “Russian aggressor state sovereign assets” are somewhat ambiguous, complicating the legal application of these terms. Additionally, the bill specifically targets foreign-controlled applications such as TikTok, which raises digital rights concerns and questions about bias in enforcing such regulations.
Lastly, there are potential unintended economic and diplomatic consequences of the sanctions, particularly those related to Iranian petroleum. The bill does not thoroughly explore these potential outcomes, which could affect international relationships and trade.
Impact on the Public Broadly
For the general public, the bill could enhance national security by combating fentanyl trafficking and data breaches by adversarial nations. However, the broad discretionary powers given to the President could potentially impact how sanctions are applied globally, influencing economic relationships and foreign policy.
Moreover, public concern regarding privacy and regulatory issues with widely used applications like TikTok could arise if users perceive such measures as intrusive or unfairly targeted. These regulations could influence how users engage with these platforms, affecting the digital spaces they inhabit daily.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
Key stakeholders impacted include foreign entities engaging with Russia and Iran economically or digitally. Financial institutions may face stricter regulations and sanctions, particularly if involved in transactions considered threatening to U.S. interests. This could affect their operations and financial stability.
For Russian or Iranian corporations and governments, the impact might be more profound, potentially leading to economic pressure, impacting their financial resources, and limiting their global operations.
Conversely, U.S. companies, especially in technology and digital sectors, will need to navigate increased regulatory oversight, especially if they interact with foreign adversaries or process sensitive data. Achieving compliance might increase operational costs or alter how these companies do business.
In summary, while the bill aims to bolster U.S. national security and respond firmly to international threats, its broad authority, potential biases, and lack of transparency in some areas pose significant challenges that lawmakers need to address effectively to serve the public interest.
Financial Assessment
The bill, H.R. 8038, outlines a comprehensive legislative plan that involves several financial components, some of which could have significant implications for how funds are managed, allocated, and overseen. The following commentary highlights key financial aspects of the bill in relation to the issues identified.
Financial Allocations and Spending
The bill does not explicitly detail spending or appropriations; however, it includes financial implications in various sections related to sanctions and asset management. For instance, the bill references the seizure and repurposing of Russian sovereign assets, estimated to be worth approximately $300 billion globally, with $4 billion to $5 billion under U.S. jurisdiction. The significant value of these assets suggests substantial potential for financial movement, yet specific budgeting and accountability mechanisms for how these assets are to be repurposed for Ukraine's reconstruction are not laid out, contributing to potential uncertainties and challenges in execution.
Asset Management and Oversight
Sections relating to the treatment and forfeiture of criminal assets from transnational criminal organizations highlight a need for clarity in oversight. The absence of detailed processes or transparent guidelines for managing these assets may affect accountability in how such significant financial resources are managed. This lack of clarity matches the issue identified concerning transparency and accountability in asset management.
Legal and Economic Implications
Several sections impose sanctions or financial penalties. For example, entities that breach restrictions regarding foreign adversary-controlled applications could face civil penalties of up to $5,000 multiplied by the number of U.S. users involved. While the financial penalties aim to enforce compliance, they raise legal and ethical concerns about potentially biased targeting, notably towards platforms like TikTok, adding complexity to digital rights and international business operations.
The bill’s approach to financial sanctions concerning Iranian petroleum interactions also presents potential unintended economic or diplomatic repercussions. These measures could strain international economic relations without adequate mitigations outlined in the legislative text, aligning with identified concerns around unaddressed consequence management.
International Data Transfer and Privacy
Provisions regarding data transfer and privacy, particularly the prohibition on sharing U.S. citizens' data with foreign adversaries, introduce complexities related to compliance and enforcement of privacy laws. These concerns include how data brokers adapt to financial sanctions and regulations, impacting business operations and potentially increasing operational costs or legal scrutiny.
Reporting and Administrative Burdens
Repeated mandates for reports on sanctions assessments present an administrative burden, which may not have clearly defined metrics for success or adequate resources allocated to ensure efficiency. This requirement may lead to inefficiencies, impeding the program's ability to achieve its intended financial impact effectively.
In summary, while the bill outlines significant financial implications through sanctions and asset management, it lacks specific allocations or appropriations. This gap, coupled with oversight and enforcement challenges, raises issues about transparency, legal adequacy, and potential unintended consequences in international relations and data privacy.
Issues
The bill grants broad authority to the President to impose sanctions relating to fentanyl trafficking and interactions with foreign adversaries, raising concerns about potential overreach and lack of checks and balances. (Sections 3102, 3103, 3104, 104)
The bill lacks specific funding mechanisms for the proposed reconstruction of Ukraine using seized Russian assets, leading to uncertainties in budgeting and accountability. (Sections 105, 107)
There is potential ambiguity in the definitions of 'Russian sovereign assets' and 'Russian aggressor state sovereign assets,' which could complicate legal proceedings and application. (Sections 2, 106)
The use of foreign adversary controlled applications like TikTok is specifically targeted in the bill, which might seem biased and raise legal and ethical concerns over digital rights and company-specific targeting. (Division D, Section 2)
The bill's provisions regarding the treatment and forfeiture of criminal assets from transnational organizations lack clarity on oversight, potentially affecting transparency and accountability in asset management. (Sections 3105)
Financial sanctions related to interactions with Iranian petroleum carry potential unintended economic or diplomatic consequences that are not adequately addressed. (Sections 3, 5)
The bill's provisions concerning data privacy and international data transfer, like prohibiting data brokers from sharing U.S. citizens' sensitive data with foreign adversaries, may introduce complexities in privacy law compliance and enforcement. (Division E, Section 2)
The section on anti-money laundering relating to fentanyl trafficking designates specific jurisdictions of primary money laundering concern without providing clear criteria, potentially leading to arbitrary enforcement. (Sections 3201)
The strategy to combat Iranian missile proliferation and support for organizations like Hamas could lead to diplomatic tensions without addressing broader international cooperation and policy alignment. (Sections 5, 3)
The requirement for annual reports and sanctions assessments could impose significant administrative burdens without clear metrics for success, possibly leading to inefficiencies and resource constraints. (Sections 4, 104, 6 of various divisions)
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.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of this Act gives it a short title, allowing it to be referred to as the “21st Century Peace through Strength Act”.
2. Table of contents Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill outlines a comprehensive framework focused on various international and national issues, such as sanctions against fentanyl trafficking and illicit financial activities, rebuilding economic prosperity for Ukraine, and protecting U.S. data from foreign adversaries. It also addresses sanctions related to Iran, terrorist financing prevention, and strategies to combat the use of human shields and cyber threats.
3. References Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Any reference to "this Act" within a specific section of the Act refers only to that particular section, unless stated otherwise.
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 President has the power to use certain emergency authorities to tackle issues related to fentanyl trafficking and illicit drug trade. A report on these efforts, including new regulations, sanctions, and licenses, must be submitted to Congress within 180 days and every year after, with some parts possibly kept classified.
3103. Imposition of sanctions with respect to fentanyl trafficking by transnational criminal organizations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section mandates that the President must impose certain sanctions on any foreign person involved in significant trafficking of fentanyl or related opioids, especially those linked to transnational criminal organizations. These sanctions include blocking property transactions within the U.S., and a report on these actions must be submitted to Congress every year.
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 explains that property forfeited from individuals associated with transnational criminal organizations will be transferred to specific U.S. government funds for forfeited assets. It also requires the President to report on these transfers every 180 days and clarifies that it does not change the rules for dealing with blocked assets related to terrorism under the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002.
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 a classified report and a briefing to certain congressional committees within 180 days after this law is enacted. This report will detail how the office is staffed, breaking down the employees working on each sanctions program and issue related to different countries.
3113. Report on drug transportation routes and use of vessels with mislabeled cargo Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary of the Treasury, along with other federal agencies, to deliver a secret report to Congress within 180 days detailing efforts to monitor drug transportation routes. This report will also examine the use of mislabeled cargo and the tracking of chemicals that could be used to make drugs.
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, along with other federal agencies, to deliver a classified report and briefing to congressional committees within 180 days of the Act's enactment. This report should detail the actions taken by China regarding people involved in the fentanyl supply chain, including the shipment of fentanyl and its components.
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 Financial Crimes Enforcement Network to provide guidelines to U.S. financial institutions for reporting suspicious activities linked to fentanyl trafficking by international criminal organizations. It also mandates prioritizing the investigation of such reports that are related to fentanyl trafficking or connected to these criminal groups.
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 law requires the Secretary of the Treasury to include a report on trade-based money laundering involving Mexico, China, and Burma in the next update to the national strategy against terrorism financing. The "national strategy for combating the financing of terrorism" is defined by another law called the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, with some amendments.
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
The "Rebuilding Economic Prosperity and Opportunity for Ukrainians Act", also known as the "REPO for Ukrainians Act", aims to address the consequences of the conflict in Ukraine by using seized Russian assets to help reconstruct and rebuild Ukraine. The act outlines various sections, including the importance of Russian compensation, the prohibition of releasing blocked Russian assets, and setting up an international mechanism for reconstruction efforts.
2. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section defines key terms used in the Act, such as "Russian aggressor state," which includes the Russian Federation and potentially Belarus if it engages in war against Ukraine. It also defines terms like "Russian sovereign asset," "G7," "United States financial institution," and "seize or seizure," detailing what each term means in the context of the Act.
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 the release or use of Russian sovereign assets that have been blocked by the U.S. Treasury until certain conditions are met, including the end of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine and compensation to Ukraine for war damages. It also outlines procedures for Congress to disapprove such asset release and allows for the President to negotiate agreements with Ukraine to free Russia from further compensation obligations.
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 authorizes the President to seize and manage Russian sovereign assets in the U.S., following certain conditions and coordination with international partners, to support Ukraine with compensation for damages caused by Russia's actions. The seized assets would go into a specific fund to aid Ukraine, with strict guidelines on how funds can be used and oversight to ensure accountability and transparency.
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 should work with international partners to create a way to use frozen Russian assets to help rebuild Ukraine. This could include setting up a "Ukraine Compensation Fund," ensuring good management and transparency, and providing regular updates to Congress.
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 to provide a detailed report to Congress every 90 days, and every 180 days after the initial report, about the Russian sovereign assets that have been seized or transferred. The report must include information about the money and assets involved, what funds were added to the Ukraine Support Fund, and how these resources are being used for reconstruction purposes.
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 Secretary of State, along with the USAID Administrator, must report to Congress within 180 days about Ukraine's most urgent rebuilding and aid needs due to the Russian invasion. This report should estimate the aid required, determine which areas need help most, assess current aid efforts, plan for international cooperation, and identify priority needs based on feedback from the Ukrainian government.
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 bill requires the President to submit a report within 90 days identifying foreign individuals under European or UK sanctions who also meet U.S. sanction criteria. It also mandates imposing U.S. sanctions on those identified individuals not yet sanctioned by the U.S. laws.
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 section outlines a law that prohibits entities from managing or enabling foreign-controlled apps in the U.S., defines penalties for violations, allows data transfer requests by users, and provides exemptions under certain conditions. It specifies the President's role in determining threats, especially involving TikTok and ByteDance, and details what constitutes foreign control, while also addressing legal processes and definitions relevant to the law.
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 establishes that any legal challenges against this division, or any related actions or conclusions, must be filed in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, which has exclusive authority over such cases. Additionally, there is a time limit for filing challenges: 165 days from the enactment of the division for challenges against it, and 90 days from the relevant action or finding for other challenges.
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 bill section makes it illegal for data brokers to share or sell sensitive personal information of people in the U.S. to foreign enemies or entities controlled by them. It defines key terms, outlines the Federal Trade Commission's role in enforcing this rule, and specifies what constitutes sensitive data, like Social Security numbers and private communications.
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 explains that 180 days after this law is enacted, the President must impose sanctions on any foreign person or entity involved in significant transactions with Iranian petroleum products. These sanctions include blocking certain foreign ships from U.S. ports, freezing U.S.-based assets of these foreign entities, and restricting their travel to the U.S. There are exceptions for humanitarian aid, vessel and crew safety, and possible waivers if U.S. national interests are at stake. These sanctions will remain until Iran ends support for international terrorism and dismantles its weapons and missile programs.
4. Report on Iranian petroleum and petroleum products exports Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text requires the Energy Information Administration to submit an annual report to Congress about Iran's petroleum exports. The report will analyze Iran's export practices, detail revenues and sale figures, list involved companies and ships, and must be published online, with reporting ending when certain conditions are met.
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 bill mandates the Secretary of State to submit a strategy to Congress within 120 days to address the role of China in helping Iran evade U.S. sanctions on petroleum products. This strategy must assess how to strengthen sanctions, monitor maritime activity, and collaborate internationally, and it should include various assessments and plans related to enforcement, smuggling, and global impacts.
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 requires the Secretary of State, with other federal agencies, to submit an annual report to Congress for two years, providing a strategy and analysis related to international missile restrictions involving Iran. The report will cover various aspects such as diplomatic strategies, assessments of revenue from Iran's missile activities, and actions by international bodies to enforce these restrictions.
5. Sanctions to combat the proliferation of Iranian missiles Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines sanctions against foreign individuals involved with Iranian missile technology, providing support to Iran, or being family members of those who do. These sanctions include asset blocking, visa restrictions, penalties for violations, and potential presidential waivers in national security interests, with exceptions for intelligence and international obligations. Sanctions end if Iran stops supporting international terrorism and dismantles its weapons programs.
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 requires the Secretary of State to regularly report to Congress on Iranian individuals who have attacked U.S. citizens using drones, and it mandates the President to label these individuals as foreign terrorist organizations. The section includes provisions for a 4-year term for these designations, allows for possible waivers in the interest of national security, and defines who qualifies as an "Iranian person," with the section expiring 4 years after the enactment of the Act.
7. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section provides definitions for terms used in the legislation, including descriptions of the appropriate congressional committees, foreign and United States persons, the Government of Iran, Iran-aligned entities, and covered technology, among others. It also explains the meanings of terms like "knowingly" and details related to the Missile Technology Control Regime and its annex.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of the act states that the official title of the legislation is the “Mahsa Amini Human rights and Security Accountability Act,” also referred to as 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
Congress is calling for sanctions on Iran's Supreme Leader, President, and affiliated individuals or groups due to human rights abuses, corruption, and terrorism support. The President must decide on sanction eligibility for foreign individuals connected to these issues within 90 days and report to Congress, including any waivers or exceptions made.
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 bill mandates that the President must impose sanctions on foreign individuals who knowingly support terrorism or engage in significant transactions with senior members of Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and similar groups. These sanctions can be waived under specific conditions, and exceptions are made for transactions related to humanitarian assistance, agriculture, and medicine.
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 bill section establishes that the President must apply specific penalties against foreign countries that support groups like Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad through significant financial or material help. These penalties include stopping U.S. aid, voting against financial assistance in international institutions, and blocking exports of certain goods, though there can be exceptions for national security, military agreements, intelligence activities, and humanitarian aid.
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 regularly report to Congress on efforts to disrupt fundraising, financing, and money laundering activities of groups like Hamas and their affiliates. These reports must include assessments of their asset dispositions, lists of foreign states supporting them, and descriptions of actions taken by these states and the U.S. to restrict financial flows to such groups.
6. Termination Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill section specifies that this division will end either 7 years after the law is enacted or 30 days after the President certifies to Congress that certain groups, like Hamas and others, are no longer considered terrorist organizations or subject to specific sanctions.
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 short title of the act is the "No Technology for Terror Act".
2. Application of foreign-direct product rules to Iran Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes rules for applying export regulations to items made outside the United States that are linked to U.S. technology or software and are connected to Iran. It requires a license for exporting such items unless they fall under specific exceptions like food, medicine, or certain communication-related products, and includes a provision allowing the Secretary of Commerce to waive requirements if it's in the U.S. national interest.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section specifies the name of the Act, which is 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 section requires the Secretary of Defense to provide a report to Congress within 120 days, detailing actions and plans to combat the use of human shields by terrorist groups. This includes lessons learned, measures involving international alliances like NATO, and the status and possibilities of joint exercises and training through multinational centers of excellence.
5. Confronting asymmetric and malicious cyber activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allows the President to impose sanctions on foreign individuals involved in harmful cyber activities against the U.S., including blocking their property and preventing them from entering the country. It also outlines a process for congressional committees to request investigations into these activities and details which committees are involved.
6. Sanctions with respect to threats to current or former united states officials Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines sanctions that the President must impose on foreign individuals who threaten or use violence against U.S. officials. These sanctions include denying visas and blocking property transactions in the U.S., with options for waivers and termination under specific conditions, and the requirement to impose such sanctions will end four years after the law's enactment.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of the Act states its official title, which is 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 bill section mandates the imposition of sanctions on foreign individuals involved in illegal captagon production and trade. These sanctions include blocking property, denying visas, and making anyone who violates the rules subject to penalties, while exceptions are made for cases involving national security, international obligations, or humanitarian needs.
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 is required to assess whether certain foreign individuals linked to Syria or Hizballah should face sanctions, report the findings to Congress, and explain any decisions not to impose sanctions, along with the reasons and legal basis for such decisions. The list of individuals considered includes Maher Al Assad and several others.
6. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this section, several terms are defined for clarity: "appropriate congressional committees" refers to specific committees in the House and Senate; "captagon" includes certain stimulants and related substances; a "foreign person" is anyone not from the U.S.; "illicit proliferation" covers illegal production and trade activities; "knowingly" refers to a legal definition from another act; and a "United States person" includes citizens, permanent residents, U.S.-based entities, and people in the U.S.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of this Act is called the “End Financing for Hamas and State Sponsors of Terrorism Act,” indicating its purpose of stopping financial support to these groups.
2. Report on financing for Hamas Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section requires the Secretary of the Treasury to prepare a report within 180 days for two congressional committees about Hamas's funding sources, efforts to stop illegal money flows to Hamas, and U.S. actions to prevent Hamas from funding attacks against Israel, including a strategy plan mentioned in a different section. The report should be unclassified but might have a classified part.
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 bill gives it a short name, “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 text outlines a requirement for the President to submit a report every two years to Congress about funds or assets controlled by certain high-ranking Iranian officials and associated non-Iranian financial institutions. The report should include information on how the assets were obtained and used, with certain exemptions and waivers allowed for legal or cooperative entities. If deemed in the interest of the U.S., parts of the report may be made publicly available in multiple languages.
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 Act will stop being effective either 5 years after it is enacted or 30 days after the Secretary informs Congress that Iran is no longer a primary money laundering concern or is significantly helping the United States with important international issues, like stopping terrorism.
7. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
For this Act, several key terms are defined: "appropriate Members of Congress" include various leaders in the House and Senate; a "financial institution" can be a U.S. or foreign bank; "funds" refer to cash, equities, and other assets like stocks and bonds; "knowingly" means being aware of an action or should have been aware; the "Secretary" is the Secretary of the Treasury; and the "United States financial institution" follows a specific legal definition.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The first section of the act establishes the name of the legislation as 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 section amends the National Defense Authorization Act to include sanctions on Chinese and other foreign financial institutions that engage in transactions involving the purchase of petroleum products and unmanned aerial vehicles from Iran. It requires the President to evaluate and report these transactions annually to certain Senate and House committees for five years.
1. Budgetary effects Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section states that the financial impacts of the different parts of this Act will not be recorded on any official scorecards used to track budget compliance. It specifies that these budgetary effects will not be estimated for certain legislative guidelines or reports typically required by various budget control and statutory acts.