H.R.1503 - Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1503, the Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act of 2025, aims to combat international trafficking in persons for the purpose of organ removal. It mandates reporting on forced organ harvesting in foreign countries and imposes sanctions on individuals and entities involved in such activities. The bill authorizes the Secretary of State to deny or revoke passports of individuals convicted of offenses related to organ trafficking.
Expected Effects
The act will likely increase scrutiny of international organ transplant practices, particularly targeting those involved in forced organ harvesting. Sanctions and travel restrictions may be imposed on individuals and entities found to be complicit. The Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 will be amended to include assessments of forced organ harvesting and trafficking in persons for organ removal in its reporting requirements.
Potential Benefits
- Deters forced organ harvesting and trafficking by imposing sanctions and travel restrictions.
- Promotes ethical organ donation practices internationally.
- Enhances human rights and dignity by combating exploitation.
- Increases transparency and accountability in international organ transplantation practices.
- Protects vulnerable populations from exploitation and abuse.
Potential Disadvantages
- May strain diplomatic relations with countries where forced organ harvesting is alleged to occur.
- Sanctions could have unintended economic consequences.
- Potential for misidentification or false accusations leading to unjust penalties.
- Implementation and enforcement may be challenging and resource-intensive.
- Could lead to increased black market activity if legitimate avenues are restricted.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's broad goals of promoting justice and protecting human rights, as articulated in the Preamble. Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3), which can be interpreted to include regulating international organ trafficking. The imposition of sanctions and travel restrictions must adhere to due process requirements under the Fifth Amendment.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).