Deutch Lauds Passage of Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act

Press Release

Congressman Ted Deutch (FL-21), Ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee's Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, issued this statement after the House of Representatives passed the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 by a vote of 400 to 25:

"From the outset of these negotiations I have spoken about Congress's vital role in preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The passage of this legislation today now ensures that Congress will have a formal role in reviewing any negotiated nuclear agreement with Iran. While it remains unclear whether a deal can ultimately be reached, I have several concerns with the current framework agreement, and especially with Iran's dangerous characterization of it. In the coming weeks, we must gain clarity on many issues, including the extent to which inspectors will have anytime, anywhere access, the timing and pace of sanctions relief, and whether Iran will be forced to come clean on the military dimensions of its program. Only when we have a clearer understanding of Iran's obligations and concessions, can Congress accurately judge any final deal."

The Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 passed the U.S. Senate last week by a vote of 98-1. This bipartisan legislation creates a formal process for congressional review of any nuclear agreement with Iran by requiring the President to submit to Congress its complete details within five-days of completion. During that congressional review period, the bill prohibits the Administration from suspending, waiving, or lessening congressional sanctions for up to 52 days after submitting the proposed deal to Congress. A 30-day review period is guaranteed to Congress by the bill, which also includes an additional 12 days of review should Congress pass any legislation and additional time should the President veto such legislation. Finally, the legislation ensures the ability of Congress to pass a join resolution that preserves sanctions indefinitely, congressional oversight measures to ensure verifiable compliance with the agreement, and makes new information on Iran's nuclear facilities, missiles programs, and support for terrorism globally available to lawmakers.

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