H.R.475 - Sanction Russian Nuclear Safety Violators Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.475, the Sanction Russian Nuclear Safety Violators Act of 2025, aims to impose sanctions on foreign individuals or entities endangering the integrity or safety of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station in Ukraine. This bill is a direct response to Russia's occupation and actions at the plant since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The proposed sanctions include asset blocking and visa restrictions for those found to be undermining the plant's safety or Ukrainian operational control.
The bill outlines specific findings regarding Russia's actions, including the presence of Rosatom officials and reports of structural damage due to shelling. It also provides exceptions for humanitarian assistance and actions aimed at restoring Ukrainian control of the plant. The President is granted the authority to waive sanctions if it is deemed vital to U.S. national security interests.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committees on Foreign Affairs and the Judiciary.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.475 would empower the President to impose economic and travel sanctions on individuals and entities deemed to be endangering the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station. This could lead to a reduction in Russian interference at the plant and potentially improve its safety and security. It may also strain diplomatic relations with Russia and potentially impact other international collaborations.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Safety of Nuclear Facility: By deterring actions that endanger the plant, the bill could help prevent a nuclear disaster.
- Support for Ukraine: The bill reinforces U.S. support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- Deterrence: The threat of sanctions may deter other actors from taking similar actions against critical infrastructure in the future.
- U.S. National Security: Preventing a nuclear incident in Ukraine serves U.S. national security interests by reducing the risk of wider regional instability.
- International Leadership: The bill demonstrates U.S. leadership in promoting nuclear safety and security on the international stage.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Escalation: Sanctions could escalate tensions with Russia and lead to retaliatory measures.
- Economic Impact: Sanctions could have unintended economic consequences for U.S. businesses and allies.
- Implementation Challenges: Determining who is responsible for endangering the plant and enforcing the sanctions could be difficult.
- Limited Effectiveness: Sanctions may not be sufficient to deter Russia from its actions.
- Humanitarian Concerns: While exceptions are included, sanctions could indirectly impact humanitarian efforts in the region.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the U.S. Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and to declare war, implying the power to take actions short of war, such as imposing sanctions. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or liberties. The delegation of authority to the President to implement sanctions is a common practice and generally upheld by the courts.
The bill's focus on national security and foreign policy falls within the purview of the executive and legislative branches as defined by the Constitution. The exceptions included for humanitarian assistance and international obligations demonstrate consideration for broader constitutional and international principles.
However, the broadness of the sanctions and the potential impact on individual rights could raise due process concerns if not implemented carefully. The waiver provision allows for executive flexibility, which is often necessary in foreign policy, but also requires congressional notification, providing a check on executive power.
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).