S.1612 - No Official Palestine Entry Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1612, the "No Official Palestine Entry Act of 2025," aims to limit funds to the United Nations and other organizations that grant the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) status, rights, or privileges beyond observer status. The bill amends existing legislation, specifically the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991, and the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1994 and 1995. It also includes a rule of construction clarifying that the Act does not apply to Taiwan.
The bill seeks to prevent the PLO from gaining enhanced recognition or influence within international bodies by restricting financial support to organizations that elevate the PLO's status beyond that of an observer.
The bill is sponsored by several senators and has been referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations for consideration.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to restrict funding to international organizations that provide the PLO with status, rights, or privileges beyond observer status. This could reduce the PLO's influence and access within these organizations.
It may also impact the relationship between the U.S. and international organizations, particularly if the U.S. withholds funding. The bill explicitly excludes Taiwan from its provisions, signaling continued U.S. support for Taiwan's international engagement.
Potential Benefits
- Reinforces existing U.S. policy regarding the PLO's status in international organizations.
- May reduce the PLO's ability to exert influence in international forums.
- Could be seen as a strong signal of U.S. commitment to its allies, particularly Israel.
- Provides clarity on the U.S. position regarding the PLO's international standing.
- The explicit exclusion of Taiwan could strengthen ties with Taiwan.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could strain relationships with international organizations, particularly if the U.S. withholds significant funding.
- May be viewed as undermining multilateralism and international cooperation.
- Could be perceived as hindering efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through diplomatic channels.
- May face criticism from countries that support greater recognition for Palestine.
- Could be seen as inconsistent with the U.S.'s stated commitment to a two-state solution.
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 make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. The bill's provisions regarding funding limitations fall within Congress's authority over foreign relations and appropriations.
However, the bill's potential impact on international relations could raise questions about the President's role in foreign policy, as outlined in Article II of the Constitution. The President has the power to make treaties and appoint ambassadors, which could be affected by the bill's restrictions on funding to international organizations.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
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).