H.R.1724 - No Dollars to Uyghur Forced Labor Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1724, the "No Dollars to Uyghur Forced Labor Act," aims to prohibit the use of funds by the Department of State and USAID for activities within the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China that knowingly utilize goods produced with forced labor. The bill requires the Secretary of State to obtain assurances from program partners and provide notice to relevant congressional committees before authorizing any exceptions. It also mandates an annual report on enforcement challenges and improvement plans.
The Act focuses on preventing U.S. taxpayer dollars from supporting entities involved in forced labor practices in the Xinjiang region. This is intended to address human rights concerns and ensure ethical sourcing of goods and services.
The legislation includes specific definitions for "covered entity" and "forced labor," referencing existing public law and the Tariff Act of 1930, respectively.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill will be to restrict the flow of U.S. funds to projects and programs operating in Xinjiang that might be connected to forced labor. This could lead to a reduction in U.S.-sponsored activities in the region.
It will also increase scrutiny and due diligence requirements for organizations receiving funds from the Department of State and USAID. These organizations will need to implement systems to ensure compliance with the Act's provisions.
Furthermore, the reporting requirement will provide Congress with greater oversight of the enforcement of forced labor prohibitions.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced Complicity in Human Rights Abuses: Prevents U.S. funds from supporting forced labor, aligning with American values.
- Increased Transparency: Requires reporting on activities that violate the prohibition and enforcement challenges.
- Enhanced Due Diligence: Encourages program partners to develop systems to ensure compliance.
- Strengthened International Standing: Reinforces the U.S.'s commitment to combating forced labor globally.
- Supports Ethical Supply Chains: Promotes responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Disruption of Humanitarian Aid: May hinder the delivery of essential aid to vulnerable populations in Xinjiang.
- Increased Bureaucratic Burden: Compliance requirements could create administrative challenges for organizations.
- Limited Scope: Focuses solely on U.S. funding, potentially overlooking other sources of support for forced labor.
- Risk of Unintended Consequences: Broad prohibitions could inadvertently harm legitimate businesses and activities.
- Potential for Retaliation: China may respond with countermeasures, affecting diplomatic relations or trade.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to promote ethical conduct and prevent complicity in human rights abuses. Congress's power to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8) supports the Act's restrictions on the use of funds related to forced labor.
Furthermore, the reporting requirements imposed on the Secretary of State are consistent with Congress's oversight role. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or liberties.
However, the broad restrictions could potentially raise concerns about due process if they inadvertently impact legitimate activities without sufficient safeguards.
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).