H.R.268 - Securing Timely Opportunities for Payment and Maximizing Awards for Detaining Unlawful Regime Officials Act of 2025; STOP MADURO Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.268, also known as the STOP MADURO Act, aims to increase the maximum reward amount to $100,000,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Nicolas Maduro Moros. The bill specifies that the reward will be paid from assets withheld from Maduro, his regime officials, and their co-conspirators. It references previous charges against Maduro related to narco-terrorism and cocaine importation.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to incentivize individuals with knowledge of Maduro's activities to come forward with information. This could potentially lead to his arrest and conviction in the United States. The bill also aims to utilize seized assets to fund the reward, reducing the burden on US taxpayers.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially brings a foreign leader accused of serious crimes to justice.
- May disrupt criminal activities and drug trafficking operations.
- Utilizes seized assets to fund the reward, minimizing taxpayer burden.
- Sends a strong message against corruption and criminal behavior by foreign leaders.
- Could improve the stability and democratic processes in Venezuela.
Potential Disadvantages
- May strain diplomatic relations with Venezuela and other nations.
- Could be seen as an overreach of US jurisdiction.
- The effectiveness of the reward depends on the availability of credible information.
- The liquidation of assets could face legal challenges.
- May not ultimately lead to Maduro's arrest and conviction.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is primarily related to the powers of Congress to enact laws related to foreign affairs and to appropriate funds. While the Constitution does not explicitly address rewards for the arrest of foreign leaders, the power to conduct foreign policy and enforce laws against international crime is generally understood to fall within the purview of the federal government. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or protections.
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).