Rockland Reporter

Reps. Mike Lawler and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick have introduced a bipartisan bill titled the Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act, aiming to bolster secondary sanctions on foreign entities that support Iran's illicit oil trade. This legislative effort seeks to target various sectors including banks, financial institutions, insurance providers, flagging registries, as well as pipeline construction and operation facilities for liquified natural gas.

The proposed bill mandates the State Department to form an Interagency Working Group on Iranian Sanctions and establish a multilateral contact group with allied nations to coordinate international efforts in enforcing these sanctions.

Congressman Lawler emphasized the threat posed by Iran’s exploitation of weaknesses in the global sanctions framework. "Iran’s continued exploitation of weak spots in the global sanctions framework is a direct threat to global stability, and we can no longer stand by while Tehran collects more money to fund terror in the Middle East," he stated. He added that shutting down revenue streams supporting Iran's activities is crucial.

Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick highlighted the importance of preventing Iran from advancing its nuclear ambitions and supporting terrorism. “We must take all necessary measures to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon and to halt its support for terrorism,” she said. She believes this legislation will tighten controls on Iranian oil revenues, enhancing security for both the United States and regional allies such as Israel.

Lawler represents New York's 17th Congressional District which includes parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.