Us Congress Senate Bill SB1221

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/1/25
• Refer: 4/1/25

Caption

BOLIVAR Act Banning Operations and Leases with the Illegitimate Venezuelan Authoritarian Regime Act

Impact

The implications of SB1221 are significant for U.S. foreign policy and its stance toward the Venezuelan government. By instituting a clear prohibition on federal contracts with entities affiliated with Maduro's government, the act seeks to enhance pressure on the regime. The bill's supporters argue that such measures are necessary to curtail the government's oppressiveness and support efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela.

Summary

SB1221, also known as the BOLIVAR Act, seeks to prohibit federal contracting with individuals and entities that engage in significant business operations with the Venezuelan government under Nicolás Maduro, which the United States does not recognize as legitimate. This legislation aims to isolate the Maduro regime by restricting access to U.S. government contracts, effectively cutting off financial resources that could support the regime's activities. The bill outlines specific exceptions where contracting may still occur, particularly for humanitarian purposes or in cases deemed necessary for national security interests.

Contention

However, there may be points of contention surrounding the implementation of this bill, particularly regarding its impact on humanitarian efforts. The exceptions defined in the bill could lead to debates over what constitutes necessary humanitarian assistance versus routine business operations. Critics might also express concerns about the potential for unintended consequences, including restricting aid to ordinary Venezuelans who are in dire need, as thorough oversight would be required to ensure that contracts entered into under these exceptions genuinely serve humanitarian goals.