Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB5996

Introduced
10/19/23  

Caption

Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas Act

Impact

The potential implications of HB5996 are significant, as it establishes stringent conditions for any financial aid directed towards Gaza. This bill could reshape U.S. foreign aid policies by enforcing a stricter oversight framework. It necessitates certification from the President to Congress before funds can be spent, which introduces a more complex approval process for the distribution of aid in the region. Furthermore, it could alter the landscape of humanitarian assistance in Gaza, contingent upon the fulfillment of these preconditions.

Summary

House Bill 5996, titled the 'Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas Act', seeks to prohibit U.S. government funding in the territory of Gaza unless specific conditions are met. Introduced by Mr. Kustoff and others, the bill emphasizes the necessity of federal funds not benefiting groups such as Hamas or any other organizations labeled as foreign terrorist organizations. The legislation aims to ensure that funds can only be released after verifying that all hostages taken by these groups have been freed and that no organizations associated with them are receiving support.

Contention

Contentious discussions surrounding HB5996 include debates about the humanitarian impact it may have on the population in Gaza. Critics of the bill argue that strict funding limitations could exacerbate the hardships faced by civilians who rely on international aid for basic needs. Supporters contend that the bill is vital for ensuring that U.S. taxpayer dollars do not inadvertently support terrorism. As these discussions unfold, the balancing act between humanitarian need and national security is a focal point of contention.

Companion Bills

US SB489

Related Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas Act

Previously Filed As

US SB1128

Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas Act

US SB489

Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas Act

US SB3174

Stop Support for Hamas Act of 2023

US SB3166

Hamas Sanctions Act of 2023

US SB3874

Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad International Terrorism Support Prevention Act of 2024

US HR770

Condemning an act of war against Israel by Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and associated forces, and for other purposes.

US HR885

Condemning Hamas' use of human shields as a contravention of international humanitarian law and a heinous violation of the rights and dignity of civilian noncombatants.

US HR768

Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists.

US HB9153

HAMAS Terrorist Fugitive Act

US HB340

Hamas International Financing Prevention Act This bill imposes sanctions targeting Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and any affiliate or successor groups. The President must periodically report to Congress a list of each foreign person (individual or entity) that knowingly provides significant support or services to or is involved in a significant transaction with a senior member or supporter of the targeted groups. The President must impose two or more sanctions on the named persons. Specifically, the person may be (1) denied credit and services from the Export-Import Bank, (2) barred from purchasing certain controlled defense articles, (3) denied exports of items on the U.S. Munitions List, (4) prevented from receiving exports of certain goods or technology controlled for national security reasons, (5) prohibited from receiving financing of more than $10 million from any U.S. financial institution, or (6) subject to property-blocking restrictions. The President must periodically report to Congress a list of foreign governments that have repeatedly provided material support for the targeted groups' terrorist activities. The President shall bar these governments from receiving for one year (1) U.S. assistance, or (2) exports of controlled munitions. The Department of the Treasury must instruct U.S. leadership of international financial institutions to oppose providing assistance to an identified government for one year. The bill provides for certain exceptions and waivers, such as for transactions that would serve U.S. national interests. The President must report to Congress and periodically provide briefings on other specified topics related to the targeted groups, such as where these groups secure financing and surveillance equipment.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.