S.1221 - Banning Operations and Leases with the Illegitimate Venezuelan Authoritarian Regime Act; BOLIVAR Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1221, the BOLIVAR Act, aims to prevent US government agencies from contracting with entities that conduct significant business with the Maduro regime in Venezuela. The bill includes exceptions for humanitarian aid, disaster relief, national security interests, and US government activities in Venezuela. It also allows waivers by the Secretary of State if deemed in the national interest.
Expected Effects
The act would restrict economic engagement with the current Venezuelan government, potentially impacting businesses that operate in Venezuela. It could also affect the availability and cost of goods and services procured by the US government. The bill is set to be applicable for three years upon enactment.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthens US foreign policy stance against the Maduro regime.
- Potentially promotes a transition to a more democratic government in Venezuela.
- May reduce financial support for the current Venezuelan government.
- Protects US national security interests by limiting engagement with potentially hostile entities.
- Reinforces the US government's commitment to democracy and human rights.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May harm US businesses operating in Venezuela.
- Could limit the availability of certain goods and services for US government procurement.
- May complicate humanitarian efforts if exceptions are not efficiently implemented.
- Could strain diplomatic relations with Venezuela and other countries.
- Potential for unintended economic consequences for the Venezuelan people.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on foreign policy and executive agency contracting falls under the powers granted to the Executive branch and Congress. Specifically, Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. The bill also provides the Secretary of State with waiver authority, aligning with the Executive branch's role in foreign affairs. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or liberties.
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).