H.R.3461 - Confronting CCP Human Rights Abusers Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3461, the "Confronting CCP Human Rights Abusers Act," aims to add the Ministry of Public Security's Institute of Forensic Science of China to the entity list maintained by the Bureau of Industry and Security of the Department of Commerce. This would restrict the Institute's access to U.S. goods and technology. The bill includes a waiver provision allowing the President to remove the Institute from the list if it's certified that they are not engaging in activities contrary to U.S. foreign policy interests or implicated in human rights abuses against Muslim minority groups in Xinjiang.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to limit the Ministry of Public Security's Institute of Forensic Science of China's access to U.S. technology and goods. This could hinder their operations and potentially deter human rights abuses. The waiver provision provides flexibility based on the Institute's behavior and adherence to human rights standards.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthens U.S. efforts to hold the CCP accountable for human rights abuses.
- Sends a clear message that the U.S. opposes the repression of Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and other Muslim minority groups.
- May deter the Institute from engaging in activities contrary to U.S. foreign policy interests.
- Could improve the U.S.'s international standing as a defender of human rights.
- Provides a mechanism for the President to waive the restrictions if the Institute's behavior improves.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could strain U.S.-China relations.
- May not be effective in preventing human rights abuses if the Institute finds alternative sources for technology.
- The waiver provision could be used to weaken the bill's impact if not applied judiciously.
- Potential for retaliatory measures from China impacting U.S. businesses.
- May require additional resources for monitoring and enforcement.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the U.S. Constitution by promoting human rights, although the Constitution does not explicitly address foreign policy in this manner. Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). The bill's focus on human rights aligns with broader constitutional values, even though specific clauses are not directly invoked.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).