Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB2626

Introduced
7/27/23  
Refer
7/27/23  

Caption

MAHSA Act Mahsa Amini Human rights and Security Accountability Act

Impact

If enacted, SB2626 will enforce a series of sanctions aimed at key figures within the Iranian regime, targeting their financial assets, access to international markets, and their personal freedoms in the U.S. This legislation reinforces the U.S. commitment to addressing human rights violations globally and signals a stronger stance against the Iranian government's support of terrorism. Importantly, the bill also mandates annual reports assessing the impacts of these sanctions on Iranian society and governance, which could affect various civil society organizations operating in Iran.

Summary

Senate Bill 2626, known as the Mahsa Amini Human Rights and Security Accountability Act, aims to impose sanctions on the Supreme Leader of Iran and the President of Iran along with their respective offices due to ongoing human rights abuses and offenses related to terrorism. The bill reflects a significant response from the U.S. government in light of various human rights violations that have occurred in Iran, particularly following the protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who died in custody after being detained by the Iranian morality police.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2626 appears largely supportive among its sponsors and constituents advocating for human rights. Proponents believe it is a necessary measure to hold Iranian leaders accountable for their actions. However, there are concerns regarding the effectiveness of sanctions in instigating meaningful change and the potential humanitarian implications that could arise from tightening economic restrictions on the Iranian populace, particularly regarding access to essential goods.

Contention

A notable point of contention exists regarding the balance between enforcing sanctions and the potential negative impact on the Iranian population. Critics fear that while targeting high-ranking officials may be politically justified, it could exacerbate the challenges faced by ordinary citizens in obtaining basic necessities and accessing humanitarian aid. The debate highlights the tension between advocating for human rights internationally while also navigating the complexities of humanitarian considerations.

Companion Bills

US HB589

Related MAHSA Act Mahsa Amini Human rights and Security Accountability Act

US HB815

Related RELIEVE Act Removing Extraneous Loopholes Insuring Every Veteran Emergency Act

Previously Filed As

US HB589

MAHSA Act Mahsa Amini Human rights and Security Accountability Act

US HB8038

21st Century Peace through Strength Act MAHSA Act Mahsa Amini Human rights and Security Accountability Act SHIP Act Stop Harboring Iranian Petroleum Act Protecting Americans’ Data from Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024 Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act FEND Off Fentanyl Act Fentanyl Eradication and Narcotics Deterrence Off Fentanyl Fight CRIME Act Fight and Combat Rampant Iranian Missile Exports Act

US HB3035

Iran Human Rights and Accountability Act of 2023

US SB2331

Cambodia Democracy and Human Rights Act of 2023

US HB4659

Cambodia Democracy and Human Rights Act of 2023

US SB585

Uyghur Human Rights Sanctions Review Act

US SB2560

Uyghur Genocide Accountability and Sanctions Act of 2025

US HB1324

Uyghur Human Rights Sanctions Review Act

US HB1848

Houthi Human Rights Accountability Act

US HB3095

Address Iran’s Malign Posture Act

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Stop Harboring Iranian Petroleum Act of 2023

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US HB1540

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US SB37

VALOR Act of 2025 Venezuela Advancing Liberty, Opportunity, and Rights Act of 2025

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US HB10268

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