Bill demands regular reports on Iran hostage-taking and frozen funds
In markupH.R. 2619Latest action
Sponsor: Michael Baumgartner · Representative · WA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: No Paydays for Hostage-Takers Act
119th Congress
Topics: Security & foreign affairs
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The bill requires ongoing federal reports on Iran hostage-taking, frozen assets, and a new anti-hostage strategy, without creating new penalties.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill requires the president and State Department to regularly report to Congress on Iran-related hostage issues, including tracking $6 billion in Iranian funds transferred to Qatar, reviewing sanctions enforcement, and reporting on frozen Iranian assets worldwide. It also pushes tighter travel restrictions on sanctioned Iranian diplomats and calls for a formal government strategy against hostage-taking, including rules against ransom payments. It creates no new criminal penalties.
Who does it affect?
It directly affects the president, State Department, Treasury, and Justice Department, which must produce the required reports and reviews. It could also affect Iranian diplomats seeking U.S. visas and indirectly affects American citizens through resulting policy changes.
Why does it matter?
The reporting requirements would shape future U.S. policy on sanctions enforcement, diplomat travel, and hostage deterrence, though the bill itself does not change criminal law.
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Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 3, 2025
- House committeeYou are here · Apr 9, 2025
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 45 - 6.