H.R.3941 - To repeal the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3941 proposes to repeal the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on June 12, 2025, and referred to multiple committees, including Foreign Affairs, Judiciary, and Financial Services. The Caesar Act, which this bill seeks to repeal, imposed sanctions on the Syrian government and its supporters for human rights abuses.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 3941 would remove the sanctions and restrictions imposed by the Caesar Act. This could potentially lead to a normalization of relations with the Syrian government. It could also allow for increased economic activity with Syria.
Potential Benefits 2/5
- Potential for improved diplomatic relations with Syria.
- Reduced restrictions on humanitarian aid, potentially benefiting the Syrian people.
- Opportunities for U.S. businesses to engage in reconstruction efforts in Syria.
- Possible decrease in regional instability if the Syrian government is incentivized to cooperate.
Potential Disadvantages
- Weakening of human rights accountability for the Syrian government's actions.
- Potential for the Syrian government to use increased economic activity to further oppress its people.
- Damage to the U.S.'s international reputation as a defender of human rights.
- Risk of emboldening other authoritarian regimes.
Constitutional Alignment 3/5
The bill itself does not directly violate any specific clause of the U.S. Constitution. Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and to declare war, implying the power to impose or remove sanctions. However, the potential consequences of repealing the Caesar Act, particularly regarding human rights, could raise ethical questions related to the Constitution's preamble, which aims to 'establish Justice' and 'promote the general Welfare'.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).