Congressman Sires Votes to Strengthen Sanctions Against America's Adversaries

Press Release

Congressman Sires voted in favor of legislation to increase and strengthen sanctions against Iran, North Korea, and Russia. H.R. 3364, the Countering America's Adversaries through Sanctions Act, passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 419 to 3. This legislation would expand and reinforce sanctions against entities who engage with countries that have perpetrated acts of aggression against the United States, its allies, or its interests.

"This comprehensive legislation is a crucial step in combating the aggression of three countries who are intent on undermining democracy, committed to destabilizing behavior, and threaten the safety and security of U.S. interests at home and abroad. Our U.S. Intelligence Community has confirmed that the Russian government interfered in the 2016 Presidential Election so it is essential that Congress work together to take punitive actions against Putin. Foreign interference in our democratic process is a nonpartisan issue and this sanctions bill will give Congress the oversight it needs to hold Russia accountable for its attacks against our democracy," stated Congressman Sires.

Specifically, this legislation would protect existing sanctions against Russia that were issued under the Obama Administration, and grant Congress the authority to reject any efforts by President Trump to water down or terminate sanctions related to Russian aggression. Additionally, this bill would impose sanctions on any entities engaged in business with the Russian military or intelligence agencies, or Russian oligarchs connected to Putin. H.R. 3364 would also fight Iran's continued pursuit of its ballistic missile program by mandating new sanctions against any individuals who assist Iran's pursuit of ballistic missiles and strengthen sanctions against Iran's worst human rights abusers. In regards to North Korea, this legislation would expand sanctions against North Korea, and close loopholes that have long been exploited by Kim Jong-Un to fund his illegal weapons program.

"Iran and North Korea have continuously demonstrated their disregard for international law and their commitment to causing unrest around the world. This legislation signals to Tehran and Pyongyang that such actions have serious consequences. Iran maintains its reckless pursuit of ballistic missiles while oppressing its own people, and North Koreans live without basic necessities under an abusive regime. Combating these threats is critical to creating enduring safety and stability around the world, and it is up to the United States to lead the charge in this pursuit," expressed Congressman Sires.

H.R. 3364 now awaits further action in the Senate.

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