Rep. Mike Lawler has introduced a new bill aimed at penalizing foreign governments that wrongfully detain or take American citizens hostage. The proposed legislation, called the State Sponsor of Wrongful or Unlawful Detention Act, would establish a new designation for countries engaged in such actions, subjecting them to sanctions and restrictions on foreign assistance. Additionally, the designation would be included in travel advisories to warn U.S. citizens.
“The number of incidents in which American citizens have been taken hostage while traveling abroad is deeply disturbing, and foreign governments that repeatedly engage in this behavior must be held accountable,” Lawler said in a statement. “Congress must do more to protect Americans and deter incidents from happening in the first place. The State Sponsor of Wrongful or Unlawful Detention Act will ensure this is the case, and I look forward to working with colleagues in both parties to get this bill passed as swiftly as possible.”
According to a report from the James Foley Foundation, 46 Americans are currently known to be held captive abroad, with countries like Russia, China, Syria, and Afghanistan among those detaining U.S. citizens.
Lawler, who represents parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester counties, is up for reelection in a closely contested race against former Democratic Rep. Mondaire Jones. The Cook Political Report has labeled the race as a “toss-up,” indicating a tight contest between the two candidates.