Saving Americans in Foreign Evacuations (SAFE) Act
Impact
The SAFE Act seeks to alleviate financial barriers for Americans trapped in Israel during times of conflict, enhancing their safety and welfare. By providing free travel, the government aims to facilitate swift evacuations and prioritize the well-being of U.S. citizens in foreign unrest situations. Additionally, the bill directs the Secretary of State to report within 185 days on the feasibility of extending similar reimbursement-free evacuations for future scenarios globally, indicating a broader legislative approach to U.S. citizens' safety in international emergencies.
Summary
Senate Bill 3343, known as the Saving Americans in Foreign Evacuations (SAFE) Act, addresses the evacuation of United States citizens and permanent residents from Israel in response to the recent conflict that began on October 7, 2023. The bill stipulates that citizens evacuating Israel under government-organized travel during fiscal year 2024 will not have to reimburse the United States Government for such travel costs. This legislative measure is intended to ensure that citizens can return home without the burden of financial repayment amidst crises abroad.
Contention
While the bill seems to foster support for American citizens caught in dangerous situations, concerns may arise regarding the implications of not requiring reimbursement. Critics might argue that such policies could lead to moral hazard issues, where individuals might take unnecessary risks believing that the government will cover the expenses incurred during future evacuations. Furthermore, examining the budget allocation—$2 million for fiscal year 2024—could prompt discussions regarding appropriations and the responsible use of government funds in emergency relief situations.
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.