Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Syria Sanctions Accountability Act. This legislation aims to modernize U.S. sanctions policy for a post-Assad Syria.
“This bill modernizes the existing sanctions regime on Syria, requires assessments on existing sanctions relief provisions, and sets out goals for the Syrian government to meet anti-money laundering and anti-corruption standards,” said Chairman Lawler. He added that it is essential for the Trump Administration to have tools reflecting the current security environment while reviewing sanctions policy.
The act directs several measures: The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network must brief Congress on exceptive relief for the Commercial Bank of Syria; U.S. representatives to international financial institutions are instructed to support economic monitoring in Syria and improve financial connectivity with a focus on anti-money laundering and non-proliferation policies; A formal assessment from the Export-Import Bank is required regarding current limitations concerning Syria.
Additionally, updates to the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act include requiring verifiable steps from the Syrian government against illicit proliferation of Captagon, ensuring no targeting or extrajudicial detention of religious minorities, and removing references to Russia and Iran due to Assad’s past alliances.
“The al-Sharaa Administration certainly has a lot of work to do to reintegrate Syria with the U.S. and our allies,” concluded Chairman Lawler.
Congressman Lawler represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, north of New York City, covering parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was recognized as an effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress.
